Lodz Marathon

Location: Lodz, Poland
Website: https://lodzmaraton.pl/en/
2025 Marathon Date: 06/04/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 12/04/2026
Winning Time 2025: 2:17:00
% Sub-3 Finishers: 5–10%
# Sub-3 Finishers: 100–499
Total Finishers: 1k-3k

The DOZ Lodz Marathon is a mid-sized spring race held each April in the central Polish city of Lodz. Known for its smooth logistics and flat route, it offers sub-3 runners a balanced mix of speed, simplicity, and focus. Though not a headline act on the European calendar, it quietly attracts a serious amateur field and has become a dependable choice for those seeking fast times without the fanfare of the majors.

The marathon route charts a straightforward loop through the city, beginning and ending in the centre of Lodz. Roads are wide and forgiving, with very few tight turns and no significant elevation shifts. This helps runners stay in rhythm from the gun and makes it easier to settle into consistent pacing—an essential ingredient for any sub-3 attempt.

The DOZ Lodz Marathon benefits from its early spring timing, with typically cool conditions that favour performance. The atmosphere is efficient and purposeful, with well-placed water stations, clear signage, and supportive volunteers. While crowd support varies across the course, the overall race-day experience is calm and cohesive.

Lodz itself is well connected by train and road, making travel logistics manageable. Accommodation options are accessible, and the event offers a smooth number collection and start-line setup. It’s a marathon that doesn’t overcomplicate the essentials—ideal for runners who prefer substance over spectacle.

With a strong representation of sub-3 finishers, the DOZ Lodz Marathon has established itself as a smart pick for club runners and serious amateurs. It consistently rewards those chasing a personal best, offering a fast course and just enough competition to keep the pace honest.

For runners seeking a spring marathon with clean execution, a fast profile, and minimal distractions, the Lodz Marathon is a compelling option that continues to earn respect among those in the know.