It is regarded as one of the world's less physically trying and fastest marathons. Several new world records have been achieved there, including the one set by the legendary Ethiopian runner, Haile Gebrselassie, in 2008 (2:03:59). It is most probably due to the flat terrain with no steep ascents or bridges, like it is in New York - just perfect for beginners! And where else would you be able to run side by side with the world's fastest marathonists?! Unlike in New York, organizers in Berlin try to attract just one or two world class stars, which is perfectly enough for setting a new world record, however. The start and the finish lines are located near the Brandenburg Gate. Just imaging - more than 30 thousand runners fidget impatiently, waiting there for the signal! The course passes through Charlottenburg, the large Tiergarten Park, Mitte area, Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg, and down to the Zehlendorf area, and finally turns back to the gate. "Nice and easy" it passes by the most prominent sights of the German capital - Reichstag, Television Tower and Gendarmenmarkt. It cannot match with up with stunning number of 2 million supporters of the NYC Marathon, and there are no theatric displays typical to Marathon du Médoc either, yet a few men in belly-dancer costumes can be met even there. Most of all it's a chance to enjoy an impeccable German quality - the race meets the highest standards and everything is just perfect! The Berlin Marathon takes place is late September, the half marathon in spring. More information about the marathon is available on the website: www.berlin-marathon.com