The fourth edition of the European Running Business Conference is set to take place this weekend (8-10 November) and will see over 370 participants including 250 organisers from across Europe meet to debate the latest trends, innovation and growth opportunities that will get more people running.
Organised by European Athletics and hosted by SEGAS, the Hellenic Athletics Association, the conference takes place alongside the Athens Marathon, The Authentic – which follows the original marathon course from the ancient city of Marathon to the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens.
Over 70% of the conference delegates will take part in either a 5km run or 10km race over the weekend, with 25% of delegates entered to run the full marathon on Sunday.
Among the quality line up of speakers are BMW Berlin Marathon Director Mark Milde and London Marathon Events CEO Hugh Brasher and Thomas Huyberechts of Golazo, who will be local organisers for the inaugural European Running Championships in Brussels-Leuven on 12-13 April 2025.
"Races create healthy communities"
Dobromir Karamarinov, President of European Athletics, who will also be in attendance at the conference said, “European Running Business Conference is a platform to empower race directors with knowledge, ideas and resources to facilitate growth. Our races create healthy communities.
"This edition has a particular emphasis on technology innovation, giving race organisers the chance to explore how these tools can bring cost efficiencies and increased race participation.”
Sofia Sakorafa, President of SEGAS said, “We are delighted to welcome to Athens so many race organisers, more than forty national athletic federations, suppliers and the running media from around Europe and the world.
"Taking place in the stunning setting of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, the Conference promises to inspire race organisers as they seek to broaden the appeal of running events in our communities.
"SEGAS has undertaken a comprehensive economic and social impact study of the Athens Marathon, The Authentic, in partnership with Deloitte and we look forward to sharing this with participants.”
