Maraton Franja Concludes: Amateur Cyclists Feel Like Pros Amidst Enthusiastic Crowds

The 45th Maraton Franja concluded its weekend of cycling festivities with its signature long-distance races on Sunday, following successful time trials and shorter events. Over the course of the event, more than 3500 cyclists of all ages participated, transforming Slovenian roads into a celebration of the sport.

Sunday's program included the 157-kilometer large marathon, which commenced at 9 a.m. from BTC City, attracting approximately 1300 dedicated cyclists. Shortly after, the 97-kilometer small marathon Franja began at 10:30 a.m., drawing a larger field of nearly 1900 participants. These main events followed a series of successful shorter races held on Friday and Saturday, including a time trial, the Ljubljana Dragon Challenge, and the family-school marathon.

Organizers emphasized the unique atmosphere of the Maraton Franja, which has been dubbed the "summer Planica" by its originator, Tone Fornezzi – Tof. The event strives to provide amateur cyclists with an experience akin to that of professional riders on the world stage, complete with enthusiastic crowd support.

Thousands of spectators lined the routes across various Slovenian towns, including Ljubljana, Vrhnika, Logatec, and Škofja Loka, creating a vibrant "open-air stadium" effect. This widespread local engagement underscores the Maraton Franja's significance not just as a sporting event, but as a community celebration that energizes both participants and onlookers.