Tartu Marathon 2021 brings virtual races

Two and a half months before Tartu Marathon the race organisers are considering different options and confirm that the legendary event will be held in any case.

When previously the main threat to the event has been poor snow conditions, then this year there’s also a global pandemic. „We have back-up plans based on our previous experiences, which can be used when the snow conditions are bad,“ says Indrek Kelk, the Race Director of Tartu Marathon. „But we also have experiences from this spring and autumn how to carry out a safe event and offer our participants flexible possibilities to join the marathon during the pandemic period,“ he adds.

First time in Tartu Marathon history – virtual option and a new distance
In 2021 the virtual event format is added to the program of the 47th Tartu Marathon. „This is the only way we can make the race available for skiing fans from all over the world during these difficult and hectic times,“ explains Kelk. „We warmly welcome all the marathon friends to join our newest edition from their own hometown or village. This could help people to stay in a good shape, continue the marathon tradition and last but not least, it’s the best way to support the spirit and future of Tartu Marathon,“ he adds.

Another big change in the program is the new distance – 16 km. „We have thought about adding the shortest distance in the marathon program for a long period and now it seems the right time to make this renewal,“ says Kelk.

Virtual race period is from February 8th to March 14th, 2021 and people can choose between 63, 31 and 16 km race. More information about the virtual marathon is available here.

Tartu Marathon virtual edition is also part of a new challenge, Worldloppet Virtual League. More information can be found from here.

Information about the main race of Tartu Marathon, scheduled for February 21st, 2021 you will find here.