Tartu Ski Marathon on Track for February

Text Stewart Johnson
Photo Tartu Maraton / Adam Illingworth

Tartu’s iconic “Tartu Ski Marathon” is set to take place on 14–15 February this year thanks to the perfect winter weather we’ve had so far this year. This globally famous series of ski races features its main event, the 63-kilometre classic, as well as a 31-kilometre classic, and other races. This is one of the world’s oldest, and most celebrated, ski marathons.

Even though the Tartu Ski Marathon was first held in 1960—66 years ago—this will only be the 52nd annual event. Why? Here’s a hint: you need snow for a ski marathon. Thanks to January making up for the lack of wintery weather in December, the snow is fully expected to remain for another three weeks, and fresh snow is even expected in the near future.

The 63-km classic event begins on 15 February at 9:00 in Otepää’s famed Tehvandi Sports Centre. This is a globally renowned race, with competitors including famed athletes from dozens of countries. The 31-km classic begins three and a half hours later at 12:30 at the Arula crossroads.

The 31-km freestyle event, as well as the vintage, relay, and kids’ races all take place the day before, on 14 February. Each event starts and finishes at various locations, which you can see here. And if you’re unable to make it to Estonia, but you still want to compete, you can register for the Virtual Race here! Because…Estonia. You’ll get an official starting number and everything, with results verified by your smartwatch.

The two main events of 15 February finish in the charming town of Elva. This is the perfect excuse to spend some time in Southern Estonia. Otepää is also known as Estonia’s winter capital, and for a very good reason.

The Tartu Ski Marathon is an official part of the Worldloppet and Estoloppet Ski Federations.

To learn more about this and similar topics
Events in Estonia Otepää Ski Skiing Ski Marathon Southern Estonia Tartu Maraton Tartu Ski Marathon