Join the fun of the Faroe Islands' Torshavn Marathon

From 30 runners in 2003, to 111 in 2011, the annual Atlantic Airways Torshavn Marathon has built up significant local and also global participation over the past decade. Testament to this is the participation of four runners from the UK this year, plus several from Denmark, Germany and the United States.

Organised by the Bragdio Athletic Club, the 42.2 km Torshavn Marathon, taking place this year on 2 September, is guaranteed to be one of the most scenically-memorable marathons one could ever have the pleasure of running. Starting in the tiny and quirky capital of Torshavn, with its multi-coloured houses, grass roofs and ninth century buildings, athletes run through the town and then head out northwards. An enchanting landscape of lush slopes, waterfalls, lakes and volcanic rock follows, as runners continue on tarmac roads, across ten cattle-grids, over two 100-metre hills and past a serene and stunning fjord. The route leads through the village of Kaldbak, situated on the east coast of Streymoy, home to a population of 221 and connected by road as recently as 1980.

For the less energetic there is a Half Marathon (21.1 km). For children over 14 years there is a 5.5 km run and for children under 13 years there is a 2.2 km run – both of these can be walked and all runs/walks take place on the same day (2 September).

It is still possible to register for all the races. Why not attempt smashing the Full Marathon records of two hours and 49 minutes (men’s) and three hours and 16 minutes (women’s) this year?

Alternatively, in spirit of the Olympics, why not show your support for the Brits running this year and fly out to the magical Faroe Islands in September to watch and cheer?

For further information, visit torshavnmarathon.com/uk/ or visitfaroeislands.com.