Nyttårsmaraton i Ålesund

Nyttårsmaraton in Ålesund is a race held during the Christmas break, based at Moa in Spjelkavika, near Moa Bus Station and Spjelkavik Care Center. It takes advantage of western Norway’s mild, low-snow winter to offer runners an additional racing opportunity when the calendar is otherwise quiet, and it typically serves as Norway’s final marathon event of the year. Ålesund Løpevenner organizes the event, which includes marathon, half marathon, 10 km, and 5 km distances; the 5 km can also be completed without timing. The longer races follow an asphalt course along Gamle Brusdalsvei past Reiakvam, cross a footbridge, return to the main road, and loop back to Moa. Half marathoners complete this out-and-back course once, while marathoners do it twice. The 5 km and 10 km races turn around within Brusdalen and retrace their path. The route is largely flat and easy, although the return leg features a consistent 600-meter ascent near Viddal Gartneri, approximately 4 km from the finish. Gamle Brusdalsveg sees minimal car traffic, with aid stations positioned at both ends and the midpoint. Organizers will sand or plow the road if winter conditions require it. Participants cross the main road early in the race under the supervision of guards, and the leading runner in the two longest distances receives an escort vehicle or cyclist.