The Hard race is the shortest route in the Tatra Road Race, a Polish road cycling event offering three route choices. Over 1,000 cyclists from all over Poland compete across the distances. Mountain weather, not calm summer conditions, often dictates the race's character.
Approximately 900 participants finish the race, indicating the field size and the day's difficulty. The competition includes not only individual rankings but also team standings, a mountain classification, and several intermediate sprints. These sprints are sponsored by local authorities and partners, with prizes linked to Kościelisko, Szaflary, Hotel Bachledówka, and Red Bull Chojrak.