Riga Marathon & Half

If you have never been to Riga then running a marathon or half-marathon could be a good reason to visit one of the most beautiful cities on the Baltic Sea coast. Marathon running has a long history in Riga City and after 30+ years it has grown to welcome 38 000 runners from 82 countries offering five races – marathon, half-marathon, 10 km, 6 km, and 4.2 km Family Run together with many running festivities throughout the weekend. Rimi Riga Marathon has been awarded to prestigious IAAF Gold Label thus confirming the high quality and excellent organizational level of the race.

Weather
The weather in Latvia is governed by a moderate oceanic climate. In May average air temperature is between +13C …+ 17C degrees. The probability of rainfalls in May is low. On average there are 21-25 sunny days in May and around 10 hours of daylight each day.

The course
The course lies in the very centre of Riga City and all runners can enjoy the charm of the largest city in the Baltic States. The course allows all visitors to run on both sides of the Daugava River, the largest river in Latvia and with the help of three bridges – Vanšu, Akmens and Salu. Runners can enjoy some of the most beautiful spots in Riga – the Art Nouveau district, the amazing panorama of Old Riga and Pārdaugava, as well as the paved streets of the Medieval Hanseatic Old Town and wooden architecture of Ķīpsala island. Riga is rather flat without significant hills or ascents; therefore the only major challenge is crossing the bridges.

The marathon course has been measured and certified by AIMS, the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races. All courses are traffic-free.

The start and finish area for all races will be located in 11. novembra krastmala between Daugava River and Old Riga. A detailed start and finish area map will be provided in the official Runners’ Guide, which will be handed out at the EXPO together with the bib number.