Ekiden 36 2026

Ekiden 36 is a six-runner marathon relay held annually in November in Châteauroux, France, within the Centre-Val de Loire region. This event, which began in 2008, sees each team cover the full marathon distance of 42.195 km, divided into specific legs: 5 km, 10 km, 5 km, 10 km, 5 km, and a concluding 7.195 km. The race evolved from Châteauroux's former 10 km and 20 km events, with its format adjusted to include a wider range of participants and foster a more communal atmosphere compared to standard road races. The race emphasizes team performance over individual times, allowing club runners, friends, work colleagues, and students to participate together. Recent editions have attracted close to 3,000 runners, featuring 497 teams and approximately 500 schoolchildren. The rules ensure the relay progresses efficiently: teams have a 4-hour, 30-minute time limit. If the fifth runner has not completed their leg by 3 hours and 45 minutes, the sixth runner is dispatched. For official recognition, all six team members must be distinct individuals, upholding the integrity of the ekiden format and highlighting the collective nature of the achievement.