This major sporting event is taking place from February 27 to March 1 at the Demino Biathlon and Ski Complex near Rybinsk.

The Golden Marathon opened with a large-scale musical and dance performance, "Breath of the Track." Over 300 participants from creative groups, dressed in the colors of the Russian flag, formed a heart—a symbol of their love for sport and Demino—to a rousing performance of the song "Temp." Yaroslavl Region Governor Mikhail Evraev gave the start to the main marathon.

"Competitions like these are important not only for those who take to the track. They motivate young people, attract thousands of fans, and boost tourism and the economy. We strive to make every marathon memorable. This year, a 25-meter screen was installed for spectators, and for the first time, the marathon is being broadcast live on the YaFirst TV channel." A fan zone with a full broadcast has been set up at Truda Square in Yaroslavl for those who couldn't make it but still want to cheer and soak up the atmosphere. "I congratulate everyone on the opening of this major sporting event. I wish the athletes good luck, fair competition, and new victories. And to the spectators, I wish them a wonderful experience!" said Mikhail Evraev, Governor of the Yaroslavl Region.

The athletes set off to conquer the 50-kilometer Demino track. It consists of two loops – 20 and 30 kilometers. Thanks to a snowy winter and the professional work of the Demino Marathon team, the track is excellent, and participants can enjoy the picturesque surroundings of Demino during the race. Participants include Olympic medalist Nikolai Morilov and past winners Andrei Alipkin, Dmitry Ploskonosov, Ermil Vokuev, and Yulia Chekaleva. The Yaroslavl Region will be represented by Svetlana Nikolaeva, Evgeny Kochegarov, Rada Tarasenko, Maxim Cherezov, Evgeny Tsepkov, Nikita Khabarov, and other athletes.

"This is our 19th Rostec Demino Marathon. Therefore, I can confidently say that we are in high readiness. The course and infrastructure are ready, and the judges are in place. The fans are energized. All that remains is to enjoy this wonderful sporting event, which we will present to all the guests of Demino today," emphasized Igor Samoilov, director of the Demino Marathons Gardening and Recreation Association.

This year's competition program includes a new format. Parents and children can team up to achieve the best result in the family classification across various distances. The family classification includes 30-kilometer classic or freestyle distances, the gold marathon race, and 2- or 5-kilometer children's races. Winners will be awarded special diplomas and Family Class cups.

"This is a traditional race for me; I try to take part in the Rostec Demino Marathon every year. My whole family and friends come to this sporting event, and we socialize with fellow athletes. We participate in the family marathon competition. Yesterday, my wife started the 30-kilometer freestyle, today I'm running the gold race, and tomorrow, my son will start the two-kilometer course," said Nikolai Morilov, bronze medalist at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

In total, the largest ski marathon in Russia has attracted approximately 5,000 participants from 60 regions, over 400 cities, and eight countries – Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Latvia, France, Slovakia, Poland, and Cyprus – to the Demino trails. The seven races include professional athletes, amateurs, juniors, and beginner skiers taking their first steps on the marathon course.

"This year, we focused on course preparation, logistics, security, and technical broadcast support. A vibrant and action-packed cultural and entertainment program has been prepared for Demino guests, ensuring a fun time with the whole family. As is tradition, Rostec welcomed participants and guests of the Demino Marathon with a colorful ceremony," emphasized Dmitry Rudakov, Mayor of Rybinsk.

During the marathon, Demino will host thousands of fans. They will be able to follow the race on the track on a large 25-meter screen installed in the stadium. Renowned sports journalists Andrey Arikh and Maria Korobova will provide commentary. Between races, fans can join the entertainment program in Demino's central square. They will see concerts by the best creative groups from Rybinsk and the Rybinsk District, participate in interactive games and animations, take photos in themed photo zones, and visit a sporting goods fair and food court.

Transportation logistics for participants and fans have also been developed. For those arriving by car, the organizers have prepared a spacious upper parking area. For those who prefer public transportation, shuttles have been launched from Yaroslavl and Rybinsk to Demino and back.

Press Service

Rostec Demino Marathon