Marathon Stazama Branka Copica

Follow in the footsteps of literary legend through the rolling hills of Bosnia and Herzegovina at the **14th Marathon Stazama Branka Ćopića on Sunday, May 31, 2026**. This deeply cultural and scenic running event traces the very landscapes that inspired the beloved writer Branko Ćopić, connecting his birthplace in the village of Hašani to the historic heart of Novi Grad. Marathoners begin their 42.2km journey at 9:00 AM before the iconic Memorial School, while half-marathoners join the route later from the Rađenović Bridge, each step echoing with the spirit of Yugoslav literature and pastoral beauty. It is a rare opportunity to run through living history, where every vista feels lifted directly from the pages of Ćopić's timeless stories.
Organized with warmth and pride by AK Sloboda, this cherished annual tradition welcomes international runners with open arms and a straightforward €35 registration fee via PayPal. The course meanders through serene countryside, traditional villages, and along the glistening Una River, offering a largely flat and fast profile perfect for chasing personal bests or simply absorbing the profound cultural atmosphere. With generous 6-hour and 4-hour time limits for the marathon and half marathon respectively, the event prioritizes inclusion and celebration over rigid competition. Finishers are rewarded not only with a medal but with the indelible sensation of having traversed a landscape that has inspired generations.

Packet pickup and race headquarters are typically situated in Novi Grad the day prior, allowing runners to soak in the town's hospitality and prepare for the morning's adventure. The event embodies the spirit of Ćopić's own words—rooted in tradition, rich with humanity, and unafraid of a little mischief along the way. Whether you are chasing a Boston qualifier or seeking a meaningful journey through the Bosnian Krajina, this marathon offers something increasingly rare in modern road racing: soul. Registration is mandatory through the official portal at aksloboda.org/maraton.html, so secure your place early and prepare to run the stories of Branko Ćopić.