Course
The course of Nordea Riga marathon was officially measured by AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) in April 2009. The course is allowing visiting both sides of the river Daugava, the largest river in Latvia. Course of the marathon and half-marathon cross the river with the help of the Vanšu Bridge thus allowing the participants to enjoy some of the most beautiful spots in Riga – "the silent centre", the amazing panorama of Pārdaugava and the Old Riga, as well as the paved streets of Ķīpsala island and wooden architecture.
Interactive map of the course.
Start and Finish
The start area is located in the very center on 11.novembra krastmala (see the map for the details).
The starting hour, for the mini marathon (5km) distance – 9:30, for the marathon and half marathon distances – at 9:45.
The finish area is located next to Arena Riga on Grostonas Street. Arena Riga is the country's largest public arena, which hosted World Hockey Championship games in 2005. The Arena will provide services such as dressing rooms, storage place during the race, as well as café and fast-food restaurants for participants and supporters. There will be ambulance and medical assistance available next to finish area.
Marathon - Key Features of the Course:
The marathon course starts on 11.novembra krastmala (close to the President palace) and finishes next to Arena Riga. - The course covers the most distinctive neighbourhoods of the city – Art Nouveau district, Kipsala wooden architecture, crosses River Daugava along Vansu bridge and pass along Old Town.
- There are no significant hills on the course; the highest elevation is getting on the bridge.
- There are 2 laps to cover in the marathon.
- The course closes 6 hours after the official start.
Half-marathon - Key Features of the Course:
- Participants of the half-marathon start together with the participants of the marathon. The half-marathon course starts on 11.novembra krastmala (close to the President palace) and finishes next to Arena Riga.
- The course covers the most distinctive neighbourhoods of the city – Art Noveau district, crosses River Daugava along Vansu bridge and pass along Old Town.
- There are no significant hills on the course; the highest elevation is getting on the bridge.
- The course closes 3 hours after the official start.
Mini-marathon (5 km)
Participants in the mini Marathon will be able to enjoy the unforgettable run through different central main roads of Riga and the main feature – they will cross Daugava along Vansu bridge. The start - 11.novembra krastmala and the finish line – next to Arena Riga on Grostonas Street.
The map of the 5K course
Marathon Team Relay
Team must consist of 4 participants and each should run one leg - 11,9km+8,3km+8,5km+13,5km as the results the team will cover the full marathon distance.
Relay runners will have a blue coloured bib number worn on the front and they will carry batons. Baton passing will take place only at one of the designated exchange points. Teams making exchanges anywhere else other than at a authorized exchange location will be disqualified. The exchange locations will in front of the National Theatre.
Map of the Marathon Team Relay
Surfacing
Course surfacing consists of 90% of asphalt and 10% of pavement for marathon distance.
Refreshment stations
Refreshment stations will be located at least by interval 5 km during the distance. It will be possible to get powerade sport drink or water and snacks. See the details in the map on the placement of the refreshment stations.
Traffic
Traffic on the course during the competition will be ceased and strictly regulated (controlled). Traffic regulation will be provided by National and Riga City authorities.
Time limit
The course for the marathon distance and marathon relay closes 6 hours after the official start, for half-marathon – 3 hours and for mini-marathon – 1 h 30 min.
Amendments in the course
Organizers announce amendments in the official course no later than 2 weeks before the race. If there are any changes made organizers will notify it through official web page and distribute the latest version of certified course during number pick-up May 20-22.
Seko mums!