Almaty Region Hosts Central Asia’s First-Ever Run on Motor Racetrack

On 29 March, the Sokol Automobile Racetrack (Almaty Region) hosted the Copa Speed Race 10K organised by “Courage to be the First” Corporate Fund. This is the Central Asia’s first mass running held entirely on a professional motor racetrack. A total of 1,000 runners from 16 countries came to the start line.

Runners competed in a 10-km distance on a track designed by renowned architect Hermann Tilke, a designer of the Formula 1 racing circuits worldwide. The event brought together 1,000 runners from 16 countries.

The event’s standout feature was its flat and fast track with a minimal elevation gain of just 16 meters. This allowed athletes to focus purely on their performance and set new personal records.

The run welcomed both experienced runners and amateurs. Runners were free to choose their own pace: whether aiming for a good result or enjoying a comfortable run.

Arranging running events on professional racetracks is a growing global trend. Similar events take place on Silverstone (UK), Yas Marina (UAE), and Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya (Spain). The Copa Speed Race 10K has now pioneered this format in Central Asia, setting a new direction for mass sports in the region.

“Our goal was to arrange an event where runners could truly feel the speed and focus on their performance. A racetrack provides perfect conditions for this – a flat track, safe environment, and unique atmosphere. For us, this isn’t just a new format, but another step towards evolving the running culture in Kazakhstan and across the region,” said Saltanat Kazybayeva, Executive Director of "Courage to be the First" Corporate Fund.

Beyond the run, its participants and guests enjoyed a wide range of entertainment – go-car racing, test drives, vintage car museum, food zone, and various activities from event partners.

In the men’s overall 10-km category, the victory went to Maxim Frolovskiy, who passed the distance in 00:30:31.25. He was followed by Rakhimzhan Kelmanov (00:31:18.81). Islam Amangos (00:31:23.81) crossed the finish line third. All medal places were secured by runners from Kazakhstan.

Svetlana Kudelich (Belarus) took the top medal place with a time of 00:35:18.10 in the women’s overall 10k category. Dana Aidossova (Kazakhstan) finished second in 00:36:14.54, and Katerina Vassilchenko (Ukraine) came third with a time of 00:36:27.44.

We are pleased to remind that registration for the Almaty Half Marathon and the Astana Half Marathon is now open. Please bear in mind that registration for the 15^th anniversary Almaty Marathon, which will be held on 27 September, is also underway.