A unique race (the northernmost land-based marathon in the world - ie. excluding the 'artificial' race on the ice at the North Pole) in the world's northernmost town. Friendly people, excellent organisation, good post-race banquet and awards ceremony in the evening, interesting course (2 loops so you will see all of the town, some hills, good aid stations - one even made a cup of coffee for me on the spot! - armed polar bear guards). For such a remote and isolated place, there are a surprising number of runners, including locals - but if you go you must spend some time on other activities, whether a one-day or multi-day cruise - in this remarkable place. Very few spectators, but that was OK. If you can make it, I would strongly recommend the experience!

I ran the Spitsbergen Marathon 2012 and was first in my category (50-60). It was fantastic...not an easy traject but beautiful....A very good organization and a wonderful week in Longyardbyen.

One of my most beautiful marathons but also one of the toughest...nice organisation and wonderful views.