A new emotional highlight will mark the 85th edition of the Galata–Varna marathon swim this summer. For the first time, every swimmer who successfully completes the distance will receive a finisher medal.

The traditional open-water swim will take place on Sunday, July 27. The race starts from the Quarantine area at Cape Galata and finishes at Officer’s Beach – East in Varna.

The event is organized by Bulgaria’s swimming champions PSC “Cherno More”, the Bulgarian Navy, and the Municipality of Varna.

The finisher medal is crafted with exceptional precision and elegance, offering a lasting keepsake for everyone who dives into one of Varna’s most iconic summer experiences. The front of the medal features the official logo of the marathon, while the back displays the logos of the three organizers: PSC “Cherno More”, the Municipality of Varna, and the Bulgarian Navy.

“Handing out medals to all finishers is a global tradition in all major marathons. It doesn’t matter whether you finish first or last – everyone who successfully completes the Galata–Varna swim will receive a medal,” said Captain Kamen Kukurov, director of the marathon.

For the first time this year, all participants will also receive swimming caps at the start, and wearing them will be mandatory.

Organizers urge all swimmers to pack their personal belongings carefully, keeping clothes and footwear together for easier retrieval after the event.

As in previous years, shuttle buses will be provided to take participants to the start line. The first bus departs at 6:45 AM, and the last one at 7:45 AM, from the square in front of Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral.

Check-in and baggage drop-off will be carried out between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM, and the start is scheduled between 9:00 AM and 9:10 AM.

Participants who register online by July 21 at varnamaraton.info will pay a 50 BGN (25 EUR) entry fee. On-site registration will be available at 70 BGN (35 EUR).

The fee includes:

·        Breakfast and water at the finish

·        Participation in the awards ceremony

·        Certificate of completion and finisher medal

·        Medical support at the start/finish

·        Access to restrooms at the start/finish

·        Option to store personal (non-valuable) belongings