Gather round, all running aficionados, because the Helsinki Marathon in Finland isn’t your average 42,195-meter race. On Saturday, August 18, the Helsinki Marathon’s course takes you running along the Baltic Sea and through the most beautiful and historical parts of Helsinki. The route is considered one of the most beautiful running routes worldwide. All participants meet at the statue of Paavo Nurmi (a legendary Finnish runner), then sprint past many of the capital city’s landmarks, including Finlandia Hall, House of Parliament, Nokia House, Lauttasaari-Island, Kaivopuisto-Park and Esplanadi-street, finishing at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium.
Feeling pumped yet? Good, because this is the biggest marathon in Finland, gathering around 6,000 runners from over 50 countries, as well as over 50,00 spectators. Of course, 42,195 meters is no easy feat for us mere mortals, so if you need to catch your breath and replenish fluids, there are 15 refreshment points throughout with water or Gatorade. There’ll also be snacks of bananas and pickles. Did you know they prevent cramping?
By crossing the finish line you’ll not only prove that your fitness level is impeccable, but you’ll also be awarded with a “Helsinki Marathon” t-shirt, a medal and a diploma as proof of your awesome-ness. And for the lucky winner that crosses the finish line first, there is a €3,500 reward. The marathon uses the ChampionChip, the leading transponder-timing chip, to get the most accurate running times from start to finish.
Planning on beating a record? Russian sprinter Albina Galimova’s is the one to beat at 2 hours, 36 minutes and 14 seconds, set in 1993. Can you beat that?
See you at the Finnish line!
www.helsinkicitymarathon.com/frontpage
Entry fees:
| Pre-entry: | Until Dec 31th, 2011 | €55 |
| Normal entry 1: | Jan 1st, 2012 – Feb 15th, 2012 | €65 |
| Normal entry 2: | Feb 16th – Apr 30th, 2012 | €70 |
| Normal entry 3: | May 1st – Jul 10th, 2012 | €75 |
| Late entry: | Jul 11th – Aug 7th, 2012 | €85 |