Why you should run Spitsbergen Marathon this year!
Last year I was one of the lucky ones who got to participate in Spitsbergen Marathon, the world’s northernmost marathon. It was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. I would like to share my story with you and encourage you to sign up for this year’s edition of this amazing race.
Spitsbergen Marathon is held every year in June in Longyearbyen on Svalbard. The race has several distances to choose from, from 10 km, half marathon to full marathon. I chose to run the full marathon, which is 42.195 km long. The course goes through the beautiful and varied landscape of the island, with views of mountains, glaciers, and fjords.
What makes Spitsbergen Marathon special is not only the location, but also the weather. It can be anything from sunshine to snowstorms, and the temperature can vary from plus degrees to minus degrees. Last year it was one of the worst weathers I have experienced in a race. It was windy and raining heavily. I was wet and cold from start to finish. But that was also what made the race so memorable. I really had to fight against the elements and myself to complete it. It was painful, but also a huge sense of achievement. I felt that I overcame my own limits and showed what I was made of. I also had good support from the other runners and the friendly volunteers along the course. They cheered me on and gave me the motivation to continue.
Another thing that was unique about Spitsbergen Marathon was that there were polar bear guards with firearms out on the course. It is not every day that you run with the risk of encountering one of the world’s most dangerous predators. But I felt safe and well taken care of by the professional guards, who made sure that no polar bears came too close to us.
Spitsbergen Marathon was my first marathon ever, so even if you might not think this is something for you it is achievable for most people. Maybe not 42 km, but half marathon or 10 km gives just as much sense of achievement. It is a race that everyone should experience at least once in their life. It is a unique opportunity to challenge yourself, see amazing nature, and meet nice people. It is also a way to support the local community in Svalbard.
If you love running and want to try something new and exciting, I recommend you sign up for Spitsbergen Marathon this year. Im gonna do it. You will not regret it. It is an adventure you will remember forever!
If you want to see more of Spitsbergen Marathon, check out these:
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