Running Through Time: The Evolution of the Tallinn Marathon
As we prepare for this year's race, let's take a quick look back at where it all began. Starting in 1989, our marathon has grown from a small local event to an internationally recognized race. In this article, we're sharing some interesting facts about the Tallinn Marathon's past, showing how it became the beloved event it is today. So, whether you're a long-time runner or new to the race, join us on a journey through the history of the Tallinn Marathon.
- The year 2024 will be the 35th anniversary of the first Tallinn Marathon (1989) and the 25th Tallinn Fall Race 10km.
- Tallinn Marathon is certified with the World Athletics Label for both half-marathon and marathon events.
- 2023, runners from 78 different countries took part, making it the most international Tallinn Marathon year yet.
- 2021, Marti Medar participated in the marathon distance by bouncing two basketballs from start to finish at once. He finished with 3 hours 36 minutes 36 seconds, which brought Estonia the Guinness Book of World Records.
- The participant record is from 2018 when in total 23 940 runners finished their race.
- There are few countries in the world where both the President and the Prime Minister take part in a sporting event at the same time. In 2018, the President of the Republic of Estonia took part in the half-marathon and the Prime Minister participated in the 10 km race.
- 2017, the marathon winner's time was a world-class time of 2:09.22, run by Kiprotich Kirui from Kenya.
- It was in 2016 when the Tallinn Marathon became a three-day event.
- The magical 20,000 thousand finisher number was broken in 2013.
- Tallinn Marathon is chosen amongst the 50 most prestigious marathons in the world.
- Tallinn Marathon relocated and took place in the Tallinn city center for the first time in 2007.
- Tallinn Marathon became a member of AIMS (The Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) in 1991.
- The first Tallinn Marathon took place in 1989 with a few hundred participants.
Each year has added a unique chapter to its storied legacy. Now, as we approach 2024, we're not just gearing up for another race; we're preparing to celebrate a significant milestone – the jubilee year of the Tallinn Marathon. This 35th anniversary of the marathon and the 25th for the 10 km distance mark a special moment in our journey, one that we're eager to share with runners from around the world.
Join us in the heart of Estonia's beautiful capital to create new memories and continue the legacy.
Click here to register for the 2024 Tallinn Marathon and join us in making history.
