Istanbul Marathon 2023

45th İstanbul Marathon was held on 5th of November, 2023… Istanbul marathon is the first and only intercontinental marathon that connects Asia and Europe with its promising views on the course.
42,2 km course starts from Bosphorus Bridge at Asian part and in the first 2 km you cross the bridge to Eurpian side of the city. With its iconic scenes this crossing offers the most beautiful views of the marathon.
Second part of the race goes down to Beşiktaş through Barbaros street. This 3 km easy downhill section will help you increase your pace as much as you want.
Third part is around 4 km, from Beşiktaş to Galata Bridge. This part of the race you will be able to see Naval Museum, Dolmabahçe Palace, Beşiktaş Stadium and much more.
Fourth part is only 1 km on Galata Bridge but it offers most amazing views at the heart of golden horn. Süleymaniye Mosque, Big Bazaar and Eminönü is right in front of your eyes. This part is the mst cheerful spot of the race. You can see many people cheering and supporting your run.
Fifth part of the race is around 5 km to the Yenikapı. From this section onwards you will be running at the seaside and as Yenikapı is the final destination for 15 km runners, you may expect some crowd there.
Six part of the race is the most boring section. Although you continue to run at seaside the support from nice people of istanbul drops almost to zero. For 11 km to Bakırköy the only support you can take is from the water stations. And another 11 km back to Yenikapı. If you can hold on to your pace up to this point you will be able to get some boost especially from the runners who already finished the race. Now Gülhane Parkı is laying in front of you between the you and finish line. At 41st km the park welcomes you with a slight slope but who cares you are about to enter to Sultanahmet meydanı with all its beauty. Ayasofya and Sultanahmet Mosques are welcoming you as a finisher.
This year the organ ait ion is much more beter than the previous years’ editions. And I can heartily say that this helped me to improve my PB to 3h39m.
Thanks everyone. Hope to see you on the next race.
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