Photo of Tartu Forest Marathon 2019. Author: Adam Illingworth.

Sport events are banned for an indefinite period of time, which for many sport enthusiasts means that it is difficult to maintain a good shape and stay motivated. As the traditional Tartu Forest Marathon is canceled, organizers have come up with alternatives, which are safe and offer motivation to exercise regularly.

Indrek Kelk, the race director of the Tartu Forest Marathon, says that in today's situation it is extremely important to stay active, because it is good for our physical and mental health. “We are happy if we can help people to be in a good shape. We will continue the tradition of the virtual event that started last year and also offer a marathon combo. For those who want to test their abilities, we have a individual race on marked trails," he adds.

Virtual running and a new marathon combo

Participants can choose between 4 traditional distances: 42, 24, 10 or 5 km. It is up to each participant to decide where to run, marked trails of Tartu Forest Marathon can be used. The selected distance must be completed within the period of April 1st to May 16th. All virtual runners will be awarded with a medal of Tartu Forest Marathon.

This year, children's races will also take place virtually from April 1st to May 16th. The distance for a smaller running fan should be between 500m and 5km. Children will also receive a medal and a diploma.

In addition, a marathon combo is an exciting innovation, which means that 42km can be done in sections. The participant can choose which distances to run, but minimum distance at one time is 4,2km.

Individual run in South Estonia

For the first time there is a possibility to take part in individual run with time keeping. It starts on May 1st and lasts until May 9th. There are also 4 distances: 42, 21, 10 or 5 km and the selected distance must be covered by walking or running on the trail marked by the organizers, which starts and ends in Elva. As it is necessary to limit the number of participants at the same place at the same time, the start time must be booked beforehand.

Time keeping is based on an electronic SI timing card, which the participant gets from the start area. Results are ranked by finish time, but no winners are declared or prizes given. Finishers will get a medal and a diploma.

Race regulation and specific details are currently under development. The organizers will provide more information about the 39th Tartu Forest Marathon as soon as possible.