“This winter has been very unpredictable. On the original Tartu Maraton course, currently about a 4 km section starting form Elva is in good skiing condition. In the forest areas, the track base is preserved, but sections on the fields lack snow,” explains the Race Director Indrek Kelk the reason for searching alternative options.

“The snow cover necessary for a marathon race is currently available in North-East of Estonia, in Alutaguse. Additionally, the sports center there has a good infrastructure to host large events,” sais Kelk. In this scenario the tracks are planned to be at least 50% of the original distances, in order to meet the minimum requirements for Worldloppet calendar race. To make logistics easier for participants, the organisers plan to offer the usual shuttle bus service, details to be confirmed later.

“However, there are still several weeks until Tartu Maraton, and it is too early to make final decisions. It is still realistic that with colder temperatures and more snow, the race will be held on its traditional Otepää-Elva course,” adds Kelk.

The 51st Tartu Maraton is scheduled to take place on February 15 and 16. 

Updates on the situation will be provided on Tartu Maraton website and social media channels.

Info about Alutaguse Sports Center: https://www.facebook.com/alutagusecenter, https://alutaguse.com/