You are organizing Åland Marathon and 1/2 Marathon on the 25th of October 2015. Can you tell us where your event is located and how runners are able to travel there easily?
The event takes place in the middle of Åland, an autonomous part of Finland consisting of an archipelago between mainland Finland and Sweden. It’s very easy to take a ferry to Åland and from the harbour in Mariehamn, it’s just a 20-minute ride. For many runners, the boat trip from Turku, Stockholm or Kapellskär is like a holiday in itself with delicious food, shopping tax-free products and so on.
Are there different distances in your event?
The distances are marathon and half marathon.
Tell us something about the history of your event. Why was it created in the first place and how has it changed over the years?
The first Åland marathon was also the Finnish Championships in the beginning of the 1980. Last year started a new era with a new course and the possibilities to develop the event in order to reach high international standards. The main thing for the event is and has always been to give all the participants a 100% service and the memories of their lives.
Describe your route a bit. How’s the scenery? Is the route beginner friendly? Can runners expect PB’s?
The route is not the fastest one, but very scenic. You will see the sea and the landscapes that are typical to Åland.
How many runners do you expect to have in your event?
We have a limit of 300 runners.
What kind of weather conditions can runners prepare to face in your event?
Hopefully around 10 degrees and clear sky.
What else should runners do in the city after or before the race? Any suggestions to newcomers?
Åland Islands form a big archipelago. If you take the car with you the possibilities to explore the island are great. Nice restaurants, beautiful environment and the feeling that Åland is an exciting country in a small package.
How would you describe your event to people who haven’t yet participated in it? What makes your event unique?
The people, the service, the enviroment and the possibilities to get a nice weekend with a boat trip, the running event and everything else to a very reasonable price.
Anything else you want to tell about your event?
Our souvenir medal is something extra that runners can remember the event by.
