The public association “Sporter” is organizing the first international marathon that will take place in Chisinau on April 24-26. Those who want to take part in this sports event can file applications starting with February 26. The marathon is open to foreign citizens as well, IPN reports.

The head of “Sporter” Dumitru Voloshin told a news conference that he was inspired by the atmosphere that he witnessed in a number of cities of the world, when whole families gathered together in downtown to support the runners. Such events should be staged in Moldova too so as to encourage a healthy lifestyle. In Chisinau, the last marathon was held in 1986.

The event will include a 42 km race (marathon), a 21 km race (semi-marathon), a 10 km race and a 3 km race. The marathon and semi-marathon are intended for persons older than 18. The participation tax is 200 lei and, respectively, 100 lei. 50 lei is the tax for participating in the 10 km race, while the other race is free of charge.

In the same news conference, Minister of Youth and Sport Sergiu Afanasenco said this is an important initiative that can become a tradition.

The organizers aim to stage the marathon annually. A semi-marathon (21 km) could be held again this autumn, on the National Wine Day.