Marathon races near Poddębice

Szlem Szakala is a two-day running festival in Łódź’s Łagiewniki Forest, featuring a 52 km ultra, a half marathon, and a cross-country race. Participants can also compete in the combined Szlem classification, linking the events for a greater challenge. The ultra has a 150-participant cap and an 8-hour time limit, creating a compact forest race atmosphere rather than a large mass start. The routes consist mainly of forest paths and dirt roads, with some paved sections and stretches alongside public roads. The ultra begins near Parking Leśny in Las Tadziński and concludes at the Horse Trail Service Center on Wycieczkowa Street. Ribbons and organizer signs mark the course, with volunteers assisting at difficult navigation points, and track files are available for GPS devices. Ultra runners have access to two aid stations offering food and drinks. Mandatory items include weather-appropriate clothing, a pack or belt, at least 0.7 liters of fluids, an emergency blanket, a chipped bib, and a charged phone.