Why?
When all across Europe the climate becomes more hostile, here in the Gran Canaria we take advantage of the mildness of our temperatures to offer athletes the chance to add to their calendars a new sporting event that will put the island in the international athletics spotlight.
What?
Marathon
When?
January 24, 2010
Why?
Mauritius is already well known for its beautiful turquoise lagoons, pearly white beaches and excellent hotels so it's a great place to combine a holiday with an international marathon along some beautiful coastal roads. A world class Marathon which lives up to the current chic image of
Mauritius.
What?
Marathon & Half Marathon
When?
Event Date: June 20, 2010
5 NIGHTS: 17-22 June 2010
Why?
A great excuse to visit Dublin - not that most people need one! This beautiful Saturday morning race in Phoenix Park has a fantastic atmosphere. This Lifestyle Sports - adidas Irish Runner Challenge is an excellent build up to the Marathon in October.
What?
10 Mile Run
When?
August 15,2009
Why?
Reykjavik has establish an enviable reputation for perfect running conditions and a fantastic atmosphere! The event involves thousands of participants from Iceland and other countries. On the day of the marathon, the annual Reykjavik Culture Night is held in the centre of town. The festival, which lasts the whole day and night, includes live music, entertainment and a spectacular firework show at midnight to celebrate your achievement!
What?
Marathon, half-marathon and a very popular 3K
When?
August 22, 2009
Why?
A marathon, a party atmosphere and Rhenanian cheerfulness in the city of Cologne marathon. Attracting 10,000 runners the marathon takes place in the city centre of Cologne, the media city and carnival centre of Germany: start & finish are in the Cologne Deutz area, not far from the famous cathedral and the race crosses the Rhine twice.
What?
Marathon & Half Marathon.
When?
October 4, 2009
Why?
The Budapest Marathon has rapidly developed an excellent reputation so it no surprise that 13,000 runners from 50 different countries took part in last years event. Running through the heart of the city is the mighty Danube River which divides the city into two districts; Buda and Pest. Competitors run along it's banks for a substantial portion of the course, with the fantastic riverside views helping to distract you from any aching limbs!
What?
Marathon, Marathon Relay, 30K, Half Marathon & 4K fun Run
When?
October 4, 2009
Why?
Arguably one of the most picturesque marathon courses in the UK. Runners will experience a tranquil and quietly beautiful point-to-point tour of the Highlands. From its utterly rural start - entrants are taken to the start on special coaches - through stunning Highland scenery, runners trace the southern shores of Loch Ness and then cross the River Ness to finish in city centre Inverness.
As well as the treat of the unique surroundings, entrants are treated to a full Highland welcome with a pre-race pasta party and festival of running.
What?
Marathon, 10K & 5K
When?
October 4, 2009
Why?
Starting and finishing in the 1928 Olympic Stadium the Amsterdam marathon weekend attracts over 25,000 participants, establishing it as one of the major European marathon weekends. It’s little wonder with the undeniable charms of the city and an increasingly swift course.
What?
Marathon, the Mizuno Half Marathon, the Echo 7.5 km, the 1K Runaway and the Mini Marathon.
When?
October 18, 2009
Why?
Now in it's 14th year the Budapest Coca Cola Women's race is one of the most established and well organised Women's races in Europe. More than 4500 women took part in the 2008 race on the beautiful Margaret Island.
Men shouldn't stay away either - they're needed as cheerleaders!
What?
10K , 5.5K, 4.5K, 3.5K & 2.8K
When?
October 18, 2009
Why?
On October 24th 2009, Bilbao will host the first Bilbao Bizkaia Night Marathon. Situated in the Territory of Bizkaia, the city is surrounded by fertile landscapes, with forests, mountains, beaches, and steep coasts, that make Bilbao an excellent destination for marathon runners.
What?
Marathon
When?
October 24, 2009
Why?
Offering scenic canals, beautiful buildings and world famous landmarks, the Venice Marathon is an experience unique in the world of running. The city seems to exude romance, history, and fantastic views at almost every corner. Running through Venice is an experience that you will never forget. After the race why not relax by taking a gondola down the Grand Canal or by exploring this romantic city's unique setting and architecture. Venice during race weekend is inviting and magical.
What?
Marathon, Half Marathon & 30K
When?
October 25, 2009
Why?
Taking place in the beautiful capital city of Kenya, the country that has produced some of the geatest distance runners in the world it's no wonder the event attracts over 15,000 runners from 58 different countries.
What?
Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K
When?
October 25 2009
5 Nights Stay from Thursday October 23, 2009 to Tuesday 27 October 2009.
Why?
The event offers beautiful views of Switzerland’s Lake Geneva (Lake Léman), musical bands and a multitude of supporters along the route to cheer you along. You cannot fail to be impressed by the magic of the setting, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This exceptional marathon passes through a number of beautiful villages and small towns in the wine growing district with the finishing line outside the Olympic Museum.
What?
Marathon & Half Marathon
When?
October 25, 2009
Why?
Internationally known as the 'Friendly Marathon' due to the many thousands of spectators lining the city streets for the event. Half of the expected entry of 10,000 will be made up of overseas runners, many of whom will be returning to sample Irish hospitality once more.
What?
Marathon
When?
October 26, 2009
Why?
The event takes place on the route where, according to legend, the very first marathon in the world appeared in 490 BC allowing you to enjoy running with 2,500 years of history under your feet! The marathon ends in the Panathinaiko Stadium built entirely in white marble for the first modern Olympics in 1896. The finish is located on the same spot where remains of an ancient stadium used for the original Olympic Games in ancient Greece were excavated.
What?
Marathon, 10km and 5km
When?
November 8, 2009
Why?
Famous for fashion, the Scala Opera House, the Cathedral or in sporting terms the two football giants (AC and Inter) Milan is lesser known for its marathon so far. But this is what organisers of the event intend to change. Compared to the prominent synonyms of Italy’s second biggest city, La Marathona di Milano’ is still a very young child with plenty of potential to develop for the future.
What?
Marathon
When?
November 22, 2009
Why?
The Florence Marathon is the perfect example of why running European events is so special. It provides a unique opportunity to unite tourism and sport: You run in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, discovering the art, history and culture of its streets and monuments while enjoying the fantastic atmosphere the marathon brings. The route of the race is very fast (male record 2hrs 08:40) and the climate in Florence is ideal at this time of the year. This is also a great opportunity to get the Christmas shopping started early by visiting one of the many Christmas markets!
What?
Marathon & The Ginky Family Run
When?
November 29, 2009
Why?
Quite simply a spectacular event. The St Catherine’s Marathon is becoming internationally known as a great way to welcome in the New Year! With Mount Sinai as its backdrop the run takes place on the highest plateau in Egypt and finishes outside St.Catherine’s Monastery. absoluterunning.com offer a range of packages allowing you to explore some of the iconic Egyptian tourist destinations during your trip:
What?
Marathon & Half Marathon
When?
December 31
7 Night Package: 29th Dec 2009 - 4th Jan 2010
Why?
New years eve doesn’t have to be an anti-climax. Why not start it doing something you love? The Zürich NeuJahrs marathon starts at 12.00am January 1st with a huge firework display to signal the start of the race and the New Year! Even better, you’ll have the first marathon of the year under you’re belt before most other runners have finished singing Auld Lang Syne!
What?
Marathon, half-marathon & 10K
When?
January 1, 2010
Why?
In January the winter the sun is completely absent from the Tromsø sky. The only visible sources of natural light are the moon and the breathtaking Aurora Borealis or Polar Northern Lights. Running across the snow of Tromsø with the dancing fluorescent ribbons of the Polar Northern Lights illuminating the course is spectacular and truely unique experience. This run will without doubt be the highlight of the year.
What?
Half Marathon
When?
January 9, 2010
3 NIGHTS STAY FRIDAY 8th JANUARY ‘10 to MONDAY 11th JANUARY ‘10
Why?
Tokyo features a superb start and finish area in the middle of a thriving city. The course of the Tokyo Marathon symbolizes the past, present and the future of Tokyo, and during the unforgettable 26.2 mile journey the runners will have the chance to thoroughly enjoy this legendary city’s legacy. Today, Tokyo has now joined the ranks of the super marathons, up there with London and New York, as 90,000 runners applied for the 35,000 places available in 2009. If you're looking at an overseas marathon, make sure this one is on the list!
What?
Marathon & 10K February 28, 2010
When?
Why?
Fifty-eight miles south of Sicily, almost slap-bang in the middle of the blue Mediterranean, the Maltesearchipelago comprises three inhabited islands, Malta, Gozo and Comino.
What?
Half Marathon and Marathon
When?
February 28, 2010
Why?
This is the ultimate long distance mountain race! Crossing the beautiful island of Gran Canaria the race offers three different distances. The first is a staggering 123K with an elevation of +4800M. A time limit of 30hours to cross the island makes this truly mammoth challenge accessable to runners of all abilities! The second distance is 92K with an elevation of 3200M and third is 72.4K with a 2200M elevation. All three events finish in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria so that everyone can enjoy a triumphant finish the Gran Canarian capital.
What?
123K Elevation: +4800 M
92K Elevation: +3200M
72.4K Elevation: +2200M
When?
March 5-7, 2010
4 NIGHTS STAY THURSDAY 4th MARCH ‘10 to MONDAY 8th MARCH ‘10
Why?
The Lake Balaton Super Marathon is one of the world's greatest endurance races. This ultra race consists of 4 days running covering 195,4 km around the beautiful lake.
What?
Individual Runners
Pairs
Relay Teams (4 runners)
Day One: 46.8K, Day Two 52.9K, Day Three 43.1K, Day Four 51.7K
When?
18-21 March 2010
Why?
The most participated sporting event in Italy in arguably it’s most iconic city. The Rome marathon is also The first major European marathon of the season with over 15,000 participants.
What?
Marathon
When?
March 21 2010
4 NIGHTS STAY FRIDAY 19th MARCH ‘10 to TUESDAY 23rd MARCH ‘10
Why?
A unique marathon in an iconic location. The course encompasses no fewer than three countries, and a start line at the boulevard Albert I which is the start of the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix. How many other marathons in the world can boast that?
What?
Marathon and 10K
When?
March 21, 2010
Why?
The Fortis Marathon Rotterdam has been the largest one-day sporting event of the Netherlands for eight years in a row. More than 60 nationalities are represented every year in the race.
What?
Marathon, 10K and 5K
When?
April 11, 2010
Why?
This is the main running event in the city of fashion and offers the chance to start in front of the beautiful Duomo. Around 50,000 participants of all ages, physical abilities and origins take part in Stramilano, Milan's popular international half-marathon, first run in 1972.
What?
Half Marathon
When?
5th April
Why?
Cheered by thousands of enthusiastic spectators, the Vienna City Marathon attracts more than 30,000 runners from 100 nations. Vienna has established it’s marathon as of one of the most popular in Europe.
What?
Marathon, Half Marathon, Relay, Junior Marathon, Kids Challenge
When?
April 18, 2010
3 NIGHTS STAY FRIDAY 16th APRIL ‘10 to MONDAY 19th APRIL ‘10
Why?
The London Marathon raised more than £40 million for charity last year and continues to rank at the top of most people’s ‘to do’ lists. Why not tick it off your list in 2010?
Widely recognised as the best marathon in the world, it offers everything you could want from a race - a high quality course, enthusiastic charity runners, an inspiring and interesting route, brilliant organisation and an exhilarating atmosphere. Last year's race was testament to that.
What?
Marathon
When?
April 25, 2010
2 Nights Accommodation: Saturday April 24 and Sunday 25 April.
We'll donate 10% of the cost to your chosen charity.
Why?
Rated among the 10 best marathons in the world. Thousands of runners from Czech Republic and from 71 countries from all over the world participate every year.
What?
Marathon, Corporate Marathon (Relay), Family MiniMarathon 4.2K
When?
8th-9th May 2010
Why?
The course of the Geneva Marathon goes along the beautiful Lake Geneva and along the Rhône river banks. This flat course offers you the opportunity to discover the exceptional sights of Geneva, Switzerland.
What?
Marathon, the half-marathon or by duo with the marathon relay (30km + 12km)
When?
May 9, 2010
Why?
If you have never been to Riga then marathon or half-marathon could be a good reason to visit one of the most beautiful cities on the Baltic Sea coast. Marathon running has long history in Riga. First Riga marathon organized by Riga City Council took place 19 years ago – in 1991. Since 2007 Riga Marathon Course is officially measured according to AIMS standards. At this time the marathon gained international recognition and previous marathon on May 2008 gathered more than 5 300 runners from 35 countries.
What?
Marathon & Half Marathon
When?
May 16, 2010
Why?
Starting in Britanny and finishing in Normandy, the Mont Saint-Michel Bay Marathon welcomes 5000 runners from all over the world. Over 30 different nationalities take part in the event which is situated in a stunning location: The Mont Saint-Michel Bay, between Cancale and the foot of the Mount which is a UNESCO world heritage site.
What?
Marathon
When?
May 17, 2009
Why?
If finishing the run in front of the La Torre Di Pisa, one of the worlds most iconic buildings wasn’t enough the flat course also takes in some amazing Tuscan scenery, several villages filled with frantic supporters and a beautiful tree lined avenue within the final few miles.
What?
Marathon & Half Marathon
When?
May 16, 2010
Why?
Starting outside the 1912 Olympic Stadium and finishing on the track inside. The race is designed to highlight the city's wonderful location on the shores of the Baltic, and to demonstrate the friendliness and efficiency of the Swedes. Stockholm in the summer is simply not to be missed!
What?
Marathon
When?
June 5,2010
4 NIGHTS: Thursday June 3 - Monday June 7th
Why?
Rumour has it the Belgian event organisers have a big surprise planned for the 30th edition of this increasingly popular 20K run! The race starts and finishes in the centre of Brussels, at the impressive Cinquantenaire. The course takes you through the prettier streets and parks of Brussels, and you’re helped along by the relaxed atmosphere attracting between 15,000 and 20,000 runners. Brussels is also incredibly easy to get to. Just hop on the Eurostar at London Waterloo and you’re just a couple of hours away!
What?
20K
When?
May 30, 2010
Why?
The increasingly popular Edinburgh Marathon has grown to a significant size regarding the number of participants, onlookers and the amount raised for charity. In the latest version of the race more than 100,000 spectators watched 16,000 runners raise £3 million for charitable causes.
What?
Marathon and the Hairy Haggis Team Relay.
When?
May 30,2010
Why?
Hosted in the arctic city of Tromsø at 70°N and the 20th Midnight Sun Marathon is the world`s northernmost AIMS certified marathon. Every year runners from over 30 different countries meet in Tromsø to run in the arctic and under the midnight sun. The Midnight Sun Marathon is held at night, but you still run in bright daylight. The pure feeling of the midnight sun in astounding surroundings is part of the reason why the race is attracting huge numbers of international of runners world wide.
What?
5 different distances: the marathon, halfmarathon, a 10km race, a 4,2km show-race and a children`s race.
When?
June 20, 2010
Why?
A great excuse to visit Dublin - not that most people need one! This beautiful Saturday morning race in Phoenix Park has a fantastic atmosphere. This Lifestyle Sports - adidas Irish Runner Challenge is an excellent build up to the Marathon in October.
What?
5 Mile Run
When?
July 19,2010
Why?
The "Laugavegur" course is one of the most beautiful in Iceland, stretching from Landmannalaugar in the highlands to Thorsmork, a natural reservation area. The area is famous for the yellow, orange and purple hues of the surrounding rugged mountains and beautiful glaciers.
What?
Ultra Marathon approximately 55K
When?
July 19, 2010
Why?
Swissalpine – more than a race. Experience another side of the Davos/Bergün mountains. Transcend your boundaries as runner, or walker. Full of variety and challenge, stretching over more than 322 km, and with altitudes of up to 2,320m – from flower-filled Summer, through late Spring and into Winter, the mountains call.
What?
78.5 km +/-2320 m
42.2 km +1890 m/-1710 m
42.2 km +470m/-1080 m
30.7 km +370 m/-870 m
21.1 km +680 m/-190 m
21.1 km +680 m/-190 m
11.3 km, +150 m/-130 m
When?
July 26, 2010
Why?
Running through the heart of the city is the mighty Danube River which divides the city into two districts; Buda and Pest. Competitors run along it's banks for a substantial portion of the course, with the fantastic riverside views helping to distract you from any aching limbs!
What?
Half Marathon
When?
September 6, 2009
Why?
Starting in Scotland, finishing in Wales and taking in the best of what England has to offer this six day, six stage foot race over 160+ miles is truly the first multi stage Ultra event for which "Britain" means something. The countryside is spectacular and even if the run doesn't take your breath away the views will.
What?
160 Miles over 6 days
When?
6 Day Event 12 - 16th September
Why?
Whether you're looking to run your first ever marathon or a seasoned runner looking to smash your personal best, then the real,- Berlin Marathon is the perfect run for you.
This fast, flat course has quickly become one of the most prestigious races on the international marathon calendar. Starting and finishing near the world famous Brandenburg Gate, you will be cheered on by over one million spectators lining the route and the atmosphere will be electric.
What?
Marathon
When?
September 20, 2009
Why?
A great excuse to visit Dublin - not that most people need one! This beautiful Saturday morning race in Phoenix Park has a fantastic atmosphere. This Lifestyle Sports - adidas Irish Runner Challenge is an excellent build up to the Marathon in October.
What?
Half Marathon
When?
September 26,2009
Why?
The marathon route is designed to be fast, while also showcasing the beauty of the City of Cape Town, with Table Mountain and the sea being central features of the race. It also passes several heritage sites along the way, including the Castle of Good Hope, the Observatory, Rondebosch Common, Red Cross Children's' Hospital, the V&A Waterfront, Three Anchor bay and the Sea Point Promenade, the City Hall and the Grand Parade.
What?
Marathon & 10K
When?
September 27, 2009
Why?
If it's your first time on the Paris-Versailles Run you're guaranteed a PB - how many other 16.3K races have you heard of?! Listed in Runners Worlds Top 10 Shorter Distance Races, the Paris-Versailles event is the second most popular race in France, after the Paris Marathon. Starting in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, the scenic route takes you along the banks of the Seine, through the Bois De Boulogne forest, and finishes next to the beautiful Palace of Versailles. More than 30,000 runners of all standards show just how popular the event has become.
What?
16.3K
When?
September 27, 2009
Why?
The biggest Marathon in Norway. Start and finish at Rådhusplassen (the square behind City Hall). The race course is a scenic route along Oslo's seaside. The 21.1 km course is flat and fast, and passes Akershus fortress and the new opera house. The full marathon is 2 laps. This very flat course is perfect for a new PB after a summer of training!
What?
Marathon, half-marathon and a very popular 3K
When?
September 27, 2009