5,000 people will take part in the main race. Over a thousand runners will join the PKO Gdynia 5K and the Frugo Kids Run children’s races. During the running weekend, there will be breakfast for participants and a stroller race for parents.
During the press conference announcing the PKO Gdynia Half Marathon, the organizers presented the medals and routes for all races. The event director, Michał Drelich, highlighted the unique qualities of the half marathon course.
Michał Drelich – Director of the PKO Gdynia Half Marathon
According to Tadeusz Szemiot, Chairman of the Gdynia City Council, events like the upcoming running weekend have at least two important aspects for the city and its residents.
The PKO Gdynia Half Marathon is meant to promote physical activity and health among the residents of Gdynia. But it’s also intended to extend the tourist season, as many of the participants come from outside the city, and even outside the region. Events like this are a real driving force for the local economy and show that Gdynia is a great place to spend time beyond the traditional summer holiday season.
Tadeusz Szemiot – Chairman of the Gdynia City Council
Gdynia recognized the potential of promotion through sport some time ago. Major events co-organized by the City highlight Gdynia’s dynamic character. Additionally, sport is set to be one of the pillars of the city’s 100th anniversary celebrations. This was discussed by Mariusz Bzdęga – Managing Director for Culture and Resident Activities in Gdynia.
The PKO Gdynia Half Marathon is more than just a running event for us – it’s a symbol of a city that supports physical activity, brings its residents together, and attracts visitors from all over Poland. We’re already looking ahead, because 2026 will be a special year – the year Gdynia celebrates its centennial. On this occasion, we’re planning something truly exceptional in the running space as well. We want sport – accessible to both professionals and amateurs – to be an important part of these celebrations. Our goal is for Gdynia to be known as a city that inspires movement and builds community through sport – regardless of age or skill level.
Mariusz Bzdęga – Managing Director for Culture and Resident Activities in Gdynia
The title sponsor of the Gdynia Half Marathon is PKO Bank Polski. It is one of the strongest supporters of sports among financial institutions in Poland. However, mass running events hold a particularly special place in the bank’s portfolio.
Running is associated with a healthy lifestyle, and we care about the well-being of our clients. For years, we have been running our original program “PKO Let’s Run Together.” As part of this initiative, we support numerous running events across the country, held at various distances. We are also proud to have outstanding ambassadors with us – Joanna Jóźwik and Sofia Ennaoui.
Zbigniew Kalwas – Director of the Regional Retail Branch of PKO Bank Polski in Gdynia
PKO Bank Polski is also preparing a special cheering zone where visitors will be able to actively spend time while the runners are out on the course.
On the occasion of running events, the bank either joins or initiates charitable campaigns. This will also be the case during the PKO Gdynia Half Marathon.
This time, the PKO Bank Polski Foundation will be raising funds for the “Play with Your Head” Foundation. To support the fundraiser, simply visit our stand at the race office and collect a special race bib.
Zbigniew Kalwas – Director of the Regional Retail Branch of PKO Bank Polski in Gdynia
The PKO Gdynia Half Marathon will start on Saturday, April 26 at 20:30. Earlier that day, the Frugo Kids Run children’s races are scheduled. On Sunday, April 27 at 9:00, runners will compete for medals in the 5-kilometer PKO Gdynia 5K. As part of this race, the Stroller Run powered by Thule will also take place, dedicated to parents running with their little ones. For the first time, a Women’s Zone will also be organized.
