The Early Years
2002Established in 2002, the Reykjavik Marathon is now 24 years old. From its first edition in Reykjavik, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in Iceland.
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Course & Elevation
The Reykjavik Marathon follows a scenic loop course through Iceland's capital, showcasing coastal views, vibrant neighborhoods, and the city's landmarks. The route is remarkably flat, making it ideal for course personal records, with most of the elevation changes being gradual. Runners experience the unique Icelandic landscape and midnight sun conditions during the summer race.
Surface: road Profile: Flat
Weather
Temperature 12°C
Humidity 70%
Rain Chance 55%
Cool and often windy with potential for rain, but the midnight sun provides nearly 24 hours of daylight. Layered clothing is essential as conditions can change rapidly throughout the race.
Related Guides
The Race
Reykjavik
Race Lore
The Course Record
2015The fastest time ever recorded at the Reykjavik Marathon is 02:14:32, set by Moses Kemboi in 2015. Every year, new contenders line up hoping to challenge that mark on the streets of Reykjavik.
The Fast Lane
Runners come to the Reykjavik Marathon for one reason: personal bests. The flat, fast course through Reykjavik has a reputation as a PB factory, with the roads seemingly designed to keep your pace honest and your splits consistent from start to finish.
Running in the Dark
Starting under cover of darkness gives the Reykjavik Marathon an atmosphere unlike any daytime race. Headlamps pierce the night, the temperature drops, and the usual visual landmarks of a marathon disappear — leaving nothing but the rhythm of footsteps and the glow of the finish line ahead.
Running Under the Midnight Sun
In August, Reykjavik gets nearly 20 hours of daylight. The marathon runs through a landscape of volcanic rock, ocean views, and air so clean it burns. The otherworldly light and stark beauty make runners feel like they're racing on another planet entirely.
Famous Runners
HM
Haruki Murakami
Novelist
2005
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Course Record
02:14:32
Moses Kemboi (2015)
Registration
Registration Opens January
Registration Closes July
Entry Cost ISK 9,900-14,900
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Fun Facts
- ▸ Runners experience the midnight sun during the August race, with nearly 24 hours of daylight making for a surreal racing experience
- ▸ The marathon has been held continuously since 2002, making it one of the oldest marathons in the Nordic region
- ▸ Reykjavik Marathon attracts over 60% international participants, making it one of Europe's most cosmopolitan marathons
- ▸ The flat, fast course has produced numerous national records and is popular with runners seeking qualifying times for major marathons
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