A cornerstone event in WMRA’s global and inclusive growth strategy

Preparations for the 2026 World Masters Mountain Running Championships (WMMRC) are entering their final phase, as the Local Organising Committee continues to advance the delivery of one of the most established and internationally representative events in mountain running.

Set to take place from 26–28 June 2026 in the mountain resort of Janské Lázně, the Championships will once again bring together athletes from across the world, reflecting both the competitive depth and the inclusive nature of masters mountain running. Already, more than 30 countries are represented among registered participants, underlining the global reach and continued appeal of the event.

Located at the gateway to the Krkonoše Mountains, Janské Lázně provides a setting that is both historically rich and technically demanding. Known for its long-standing spa tradition and its direct access to steep and varied terrain, the area offers an ideal environment for championship racing.

The courses are expected to reflect the core identity of mountain running, combining sustained climbs, technical sections, and fast transitions within a compact and spectator-friendly landscape.

The official WMMRC 2026 website is live with race details, schedules, maps/GPX, accommodation tips, and local guidance: https://wmmrc2026.maratonstav.cz/en

Registration is still open and a continually updated start-list/entry section will keep participants and managers informed as national delegations submit their registrations.

All three races are centred around the town core to simplify transfers, support team logistics, and maximise the championship atmosphere for athletes and supporters.

• Uphill: approx. 8 km with ~850 m of climbing, Friday 26 June 2026, 13:00. A sharp ascent from the colonnade area up to Černá hora, designed for pure vertical specialists.

• Long Distance: approx. 22 km with ~1,330 m of ascent, Saturday 27 June 2026, 08:30. A classic mountain half-marathon profile on varied terrain, starting and finishing by the town colonnade.

• Up & Downhill: approx. 9 km with ~595 m of elevation, Sunday 28 June 2026, 09:00. A fast, technical circuit that rewards smart pacing and confident descending.

Within the broader development of the sport, the World Masters Mountain Running Championships continue to play a role in the WMRA 2026–2030 strategy. The event reflects a clear commitment to lifelong participation, recognising that mountain running extends well beyond elite performance and into sustained engagement across decades.

“The World Masters Mountain Running Championships are a fundamental pillar of our sport. They show that mountain running is not only about peak performance, but about continuity, commitment, and community. Janské Lázně offers a unique environment to showcase this spirit, and we are confident that the 2026 edition will deliver both outstanding competition and a strong sense of shared identity among athletes.” Marcel Matanin, WMRA Council Delegate for the 2026 World Masters Mountain Running Championships.

Masters athletes represent not only a significant portion of global participation, but also the experience, continuity, and values that define the discipline. In recent editions, the Championships have consistently attracted between 500 and 800 athletes from more than 25 nations, reinforcing their position as one of the most inclusive and stable competitions on the international calendar. The 2026 edition is expected to build on this foundation, further strengthening the connection between competitive excellence and community-driven participation.

On the organisational side, preparations in Janské Lázně are progressing steadily. The Local Organising Committee continues to coordinate logistics, refine operational details, and maintain close communication with participating teams. Start lists are being updated regularly, and key information is being made available through the official event website as the Championships approach.

“We’ve been working hard all year to prepare for the WMMR championships in Janské Lázně – come see for yourself that we’ve done a great job!”