According to the feedback survey, the biggest motivation to ski Tartu Maraton is a chance to put yourself to a test and exceed your limits. Some skiers aim to beat their time from last year, while others take the challenge of competing with friends, and sharing the emotions in the post-marathon sauna chats. Many participants also loved the lively atmosphere of the marathon and the joy of winter weather. They stressed that Tartu Maraton is a tradition that simply cannot be missed!

 

This year, participants were thankful for adding the freestyle technique to the marathon. They said it was great that skating skiers could join the fun too! The 31 km freestyle distance, starting from Arula, brought over 800 ski enthusiasts to the start. One participant said: “Diversity enriches, and I'm happy for everyone who got to experience this.” No need to worry if the freestyle option will continue - it’s here to stay. Many have asked if it's possible to ski the longer distance in freestyle too. While it’s not on the schedule for 2025, the organizers are definitely planning to discuss this for the future.

 

The colorful Vintage race returned this year: “The Vintage race was cool, 4,5 hours of effort on wooden skis.” Many were excited to race 31 km from Arula to Elva using last century's equipment, and some even wished it had been the full 63 km. The retro race will be back in 2025, so anyone who missed out can come and try it.

 

Sunday kicked off under bright sunlight, delighting everyone who loves the classical Tartu Maraton. Participants enjoyed joining the guided hiking groups, noting, “It was a pleasant journey; we all stuck together and supported each other.” For the first time, tour leaders Jarek Jõepera (63 km) and Tiia Teppan (31 km) led these groups, ensuring a relaxed and stress-free experience. Hiking groups will continue also in the future. 

 

Participants also gave many useful suggestions for the organizers to consider.

It was pointed out that the expo could be open longer on Friday. Good news - the race center will be open until 21:00 on Fridays, allowing those coming from far to pick up the numbers, wax skis, and benefit from the expo offerings. There was also feedback that the starting corridors should open earlier on race day. Instead of the previous 15 minutes, corridors will now open 30 minutes before the start, giving enough time to set up skis and handle luggage. Additionally, number distribution on the race day will begin 2 hours before the start to make the marathon morning more relaxed.

 

Comments were also made about the medal engraving service, which, while a nice addition, had long queues. Efforts will be made to find a more suitable location within the tent so that the queue does not interfere with other services. As it is a very popular service, everyone will have the opportunity to order the engraving service by mail later if desired.

 

Participants also noted the snowmobiles on the track during the race day. One suggestion was to switch to electric models to eliminate the unpleasant smell. Race Director Indrek Kelk says it is an important issue: “Today we aim to reduce two-stroke engines in favor of four-stroke models. Additionally, we hope to use special Neste odorless fuel in all our snowmobiles next winter.” He adds that hopefully also the electric snowmobiles will be used on Tartu Maraton one day. 

 

The feedback survey was filled with appreciation and heartwarming thanks. Skiers were grateful to the paramedics and others who helped navigate icy conditions and offered helpful advice. Many good and supportive words were said about the organisers as well as helpful and friendly volunteers, encouraging them to continue: “The main thing is that the organizers don’t get tired. Keep going!” 

 

We thank everyone who took the time to share their thoughts with us!  We assure that organizers still have plenty of energy left and hope to see you in February 2025 at the 51st Tartu Marathon!