The Arctic running experience

Most of the city is on a small island surrounded by the sea and beautiful mountains. The Arctic light and nature in Northern Norway give strong contrasts that provide intense experiences. During the summer the midnight sun shines and tempts you to stay up all night. The polar night arrives at the end of November and lasts until the end of January. During this time the contrasts are even more striking. We have a minimum of daylight but Tromsø is one of the best places to chase the aurora borealis during the winter.

The idea for a Midnight Sun Marathon was born in 1989: running at night but in bright daylight. But it is far from an easy marathon. Many who come don’t realise what summer in the Arctic can be like. Cold, wet and challenging weather conditions demand everything from the runners. On the other hand, the spectacular landscape and Arctic setting compensate for sometimes hostile weather. Especially, when the Midnight Sun shows itself during the race, for many this becomes a breath-taking and most of all unforgettable experience of the Arctic.

From the marathon start at 20.30 runners pass through the centre of Tromsø and over the iconic Tromsø Bridge. You pass monuments like the Arctic Cathedral while enjoying the fantastic views of snow-covered mountains and sea that surround around you. Most runners cross the finish line around midnight in bright daylight and get the well-deserved medal around their neck.

Approximately 6000 runners take to the streets of Tromsø every year. “We love to welcome people from all around the world at the start of our race and to feel the excitement and energy buzzing through the town”, says race director Nils Haetta. There are countless amazing stories from participants throughout the Midnight Sun Marathon’s 30-year history. Mostly they are about sharing a passion for running, friendship and happiness – but also sad stories where running contributed to a healing process. We are impressed by all our participants and their strength, endurance and willingness to challenge themselves, says Haetta.

There is a distance for everyone at the Midnight Sun Marathon. You can choose between the Marathon, Mizuno Half Marathon, MSM Mila (10k), Co-op Mini Marathon (4.2km) and Kids marathon (800m). But you soon see that the race is not just for runners – the locals are an important part of the experience in creating the right atmosphere. They cheer you through the race and push you through the rough patches.

Tromsø is situated in the far North but it is not difficult to get to. There are several flights each day from Oslo and Tromsø city centre is only 4km from the airport.

Are you ready for your Arctic running experience? Join us on 19 June 2021 for the next Midnight Sun Marathon.

Midnight Sun Marathon, Norway. 19 June 2021 / 18 June 2022

info@msm.no
Tel: +47 77673363
www.msm.no