Spitsbergen Marathon

At 78 degrees north, the Spitsbergen Marathon begins in Longyearbyen on Svalbard, well within the Arctic Circle. This road running event takes place on the first weekend in June, offering a marathon, half marathon, 10 km, and short Lab and Line races for children. The marathon has been run annually since 1994 and is the world’s northernmost marathon on solid ground. The 10 km is the most attended distance, with both the 10 km and half marathon attracting over 100 participants in recent editions. The course follows roads in and near Longyearbyen. The open terrain can make the running feel more challenging than the distance might indicate. Early June typically features mild, dry Arctic summer weather, not conditions for hot racing. Participants travel from across the globe, locals offer encouragement from town, and the marathon is also a Boston qualifier. A unique feature, practical as much as unusual, is that it is the only marathon with polar bear patrols. Following the race, Svalbard Turn organizes a banquet for runners to share a substantial meal and socialize.