Starlight runners: cross-border marathons for communities (Starlight runners)
Project number:
LTPL00236
Project status:
Completed
Call:
2
Priority:
3. Strengthening cooperation of local, regional and national stakeholders
Specific objective:
3.1 - Building up mutual trust, in particular by encouraging people-to-people actions
Date:
From: 2024.12.01 Till: 2025.11.30
Project summary:
The project aims to organize two unique cross-border night marathons in Druskininkai (Lithuania) and Wydminy (Poland), responding to the growing popularity of running and the need for diverse, inclusive, and enjoyable sports experiences. Night marathons are still rare in Europe and globally, and this project seeks to make running accessible to everyone, particularly young participants, while promoting cross-border community cooperation.
Marathon tourism is an important element of local tourism strategies, attracting runners, teams, and families. The project emphasizes inclusivity, countering the perceived exclusivity of traditional marathons, and promoting running as a fun activity for all. Around 200 participants will actively engage in the events, with promotional efforts (articles, videos, radio, internet TV) expected to attract over 1,000 visitors.
Through people-to-people actions and NGO cooperation, the project strengthens mutual trust and community engagement, contributing to social cohesion and the overall well-being of the border regions. Its cross-border nature leverages the complementary strengths of partners, ensuring a high-quality and innovative sports experience.
Aligned with EU and municipal strategies, the project promotes healthy lifestyles, inclusivity in sports, and cross-border cooperation, creating a lasting legacy for marathon tourism and community engagement in Lithuania and Poland.
Key benefits:
Inclusive sports activities for runners of all levels
Strengthened NGO and community cooperation
Increased tourism and visitor engagement
Promotion of healthy lifestyles and active living
Enhanced visibility and collaboration between cross-border regions
Lead Partner:
Association Sport events
Lead Partner region:
Vilnius county
Project Partner(s):
Foundation Dystans
Total project budget:
60.046,20
ERDF:
48.036,96
Does the project contribute to the implementation of the EU BSRS?
Yes
