The story behind
Battle Mile
“As a third-generation runner, I dedicated my life to middle-distance running… but eventually faced the harsh reality that traditional running lacked team dynamics.”
— Iurii Podnebesnyi, President of Association
Personal Legacy & Turning Point
Iurii Podnebesnyi with his son Alex
“As a third-generation runner, I dedicated my life to middle-distance running, competing at national and international levels, but eventually faced the harsh reality that traditional running lacked team dynamics and long-term motivation. At 22, disillusioned with the sport's structure, I retired, realizing that many athletes struggle with transitioning beyond their competitive years.
In 2018, after my son Alex suffered severe injuries and was told he might never run again,we witnessed a miracle — through faith and perseverance, he not only recovered but became a national champion.Determined to change this cycle, I collaborated with enthusiasts to create Battle Mile, transforming running into a team-based sport.”
— Iurii Pidnebesnyi, President of Association
How It All Began
The game, named Battle Mile, began in 2019 in Cherkasy, Ukraine. Since then, the competition's team battles have gained widespread popularity throughout the country. From 2020 to 2021, the National Organisation for Team Running — BATTLE MILE Ukraine — hosted the first national league in Kyiv, with 32 amateur teams from across Ukraine participating.
BATTLE MILE Ukraine
BATTLE MILE Ukraine
In 2022, the international organization Ace Battle Association was founded in Luxembourg, where the Association is currently headquartered, to develop this type of sports game.
Headquarters in Luxembourg
Headquarters in Luxembourg
Battle Mile matches in Brussels
Iurii Pidnebesnyi in Brussels
By 2023, the first international matches of Battle Mile were held in Brussels, Belgium, featuring teams from Kyiv and Brussels.
Interest in this sport continues to grow among running enthusiasts across various European countries.In November 2024, the international sports Ace Battle Association (ABA) unveiled the ACE Battle project at the European Business Conference in Athens through its acebattle.run platform.
By 2025, this exciting new game will be available to running enthusiasts all over Europe and Great Britain, with the official launch set for March 29 in London.
European Business Conference in Athens
European Business Conference in Athens
Ace Battle Run Map
01
2020-2021 — First national league in Kyiv (32 amateur teams)
02
2022 — Foundation of Ace Battle Association in Luxembourg
03
2023 — First international matches in Brussels
04
2024 (Nov) — Presentation at European Business Conference in Athens
05
2025 (March) — Official European launch in London
06
2025 — National rating competitions in the Baltics, Ukraine, UK, Cyprus & Belgium
More cities, more teams, more victories — the journey has only begun.
What started as an idea has evolved into a global team-running ecosystem, allowing runners of all ages and skill levels to compete, improve, and experience the thrill of team victories.
“I believe that one day, Battle Mile athletes will stand alongside football and basketball players in fame and prestige.”
— Iurii Pidnebesnyi, President of Association