In our last article, we highlighted the world’s most famous marathons, including the 6 events classed as ‘World Marathon Majors’ – Boston, Chicago, NYC, London, Berlin and Tokyo – plus a few other well-known events. Most people who dream of running a marathon probably have one of these classic events in mind, but they are by no means the only ways to tackle the sport. If you’re an experienced runner keen on expanding your marathon portfolio, or even if you’ve never taken on a marathon but simply dream of trying out something new, here are some events you may want to consider. Take on one of these five unique marathon challenges and you’re sure to return with stories that’ll impress your friends and create lasting memories for years to come.
These are five of the world’s most unique marathons
FWD North Pole Marathon 2019
If you get overheated easily when running, this could be the ideal event for you. This unique race, the world’s only ‘ice marathon’, will cool you off nicely with its route traversing the frozen waters of the Arctic Ocean. With temperatures dropping as low as minus 30, you’ll have added motivation to keep moving and finish the course quickly, but if you’re seriously looking for an event to wow your friends, it should be right at the top of your list. After all, within a few hours after the race you’ll have warmed up nicely, but your memories will last a lifetime.
Date: 6-11 April 2019
Cost: €16,000 (€15,000 for lump sum payment at registration)
Official website: http://www.npmarathon.com/html/race-info/117.html
Note: The payment covers a host of expenses apart from participation in the race, including return flights from Svalbard to the Arctic marathon venue, helicopter travel within the Arctic Circle, on-site accommodation fees, and ‘the opportunity to stand at the exact Geographic North Pole’.
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The Great Wall Marathon (China)
As its name suggests, this is a unique marathon tournament running along the historic Great Wall of China. Traditionally held in May, the event is due to have its 20-year anniversary in 2019. With its route ascending sections of the Great Wall, runners will have upwards of 5,000 stairs to contend with, but the views from the top will make you forget the pain. If not, your race ticket will also earn you a free massage at the finish line!
Date: 18 May 2019 / October (planned)
Cost: Various packages available
Official website: https://great-wall-marathon.com/
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Are you feeling tempted by one of these events, but still a bit unsure you’ll be able to complete it? We get it – full marathons are intensive events, with even the ‘easy’ ones requiring months of training and preparation. If you’re feeling charmed by the idea of these events but aren’t ready to take on a full marathon just yet, that doesn’t mean you need to rule it out. Many marathons, including some of the ones in this series, also offer half marathons, 10k races, or other events that could give you a taste of the action. You’ll experience the best parts of overseas marathon running: you’ll enjoy the scenery, feel part of the event, and see the world, all without the pressure of finishing that endless 42km. And if a teaser is enough to get you hooked, by all means, take it on in full next year!
Inca Trail Marathon (Peru)
Since 1996, the Inca Trail Marathon in Peru has been captivating marathon lovers and history buffs around the world. Offered both as a 30 km race and as a full marathon, this event is held annually on an ‘informal’ basis. As the run is held in National Park territory, event organisers have decided to keep the event low-key, with no bib numbers and a limited number of entrants allowed.
Following the original pilgrimage trail to the legendary Incan city Machu Picchu, the course starts at an altitude above 3,000 metres, in Cusco, passing by Inca fortresses and ruins as well as structures from the Spanish colonial era before descending through the lush ‘cloud forest trail’. With majestic Andean scenery side-by-side with Incan ruins, this is surely one of the most beautiful marathon courses, but it’s not to be taken lightly. If running 42 km at altitudes reaching above 4,000 metres doesn’t take your breath away, the views of Macchu Picchu probably will.
Date: 1-9 June, 3-11 August 2019
Cost: Can differ depending on tour company. (Expect around ~ USD 3,000)
Website (informal): https: //www.andesadventures.com/run2asum.htm
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Big Five Marathon (South Africa)
Safari in a jeep not exciting enough for you? Why not try one on foot? In the Entabeni game reserve in Limpopo province, South Africa, runners can experience life as a gazelle while running a route through the savannah. The course’s namesake Big 5 refer to the five biggest attractions for safari-goers – the Elephant, Rhinoceros, Buffalo, Lion and Leopard, all of which you might witness while making your way along the course. Feel the thrill of running brazenly through lion territory, but don’t worry – the race is monitored by rangers stationed in the air and on the ground. In addition to the race, the package includes a regular safari tour from 4-WD, so you’ll have a chance to relax your legs and learn some more about the savannah ecosystem.
Date: 22 June 2019
Cost: 6-day Package: EUR 1, 700 / 8-day Package: EUR 2,100
Official website: https: //big-five-marathon.com/
Note: Because of the vast difference in temperatures from morning to night and intense sunlight on the savannah, solar protection is extremely important – make sure to bring sun cream and sunglasses and a hat/visor.
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Marathon du Médoc (France)
If you’re a wine lover as well as a runner, this merry-thon through France’s famous Bordeaux Medoc wine region is probably up your alley. Held during harvest season, the event passes through some of the world’s most famous wineries. In keeping with the festive mood, wine is offered alongside water at the watering stations, while many runners participate in the event in full fancy dress. Although the course isn’t strenuous, there are temptations around every corner – particularly in the second half of the course where you’ll find plates of ham, cheese, and even dishes of oysters and steaks waiting for you. Perhaps the only marathon you can complete without burning any calories.
Date: Early September 2019 (Date TBA, entry to start in March 2019)
Cost: EUR 88
Official website: https: //www.marathondumedoc.com/en/
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*Note: These rates are based on search queries made on nz.kayak.com on 17 October 2018. The prices are quoted in NZD. Flight prices are based on results for a return economy flight search. Hotel prices are for double occupancy and include taxes and fees. Prices are subject to change, may vary, or no longer be available.
