WHY THIS CHORE
SHOW UP READY.
Nicknamed the "World Record Marathon" — mild December weather, barely 30 metres of elevation gain, and a finish line built for personal bests.
WHAT TO EXPECT
VERIFIED EVENT DETAILS · DAILY CHORE EDITORIAL COMMENTARY
The Course
Start at Plaça de la Marató, finish along the water path of the City of Arts and Sciences. The route runs entirely on paved city streets past the Turia Gardens, Town Hall Square and the Marina — one of the flattest courses in the world, with barely 30 m of cumulative elevation gain. Mild Mediterranean December temperatures (8–16°C) make it a favourite for record attempts.
Records
Men's course record: 2:01:48 (Sisay Lemma, 2023). The race also holds the current women's marathon world record, earning it the nickname "the World Record Marathon."
Status
A World Athletics Platinum Label race, organised by SD Correcaminos since 1981, drawing runners from over 100 countries. Around 36,000 registrations sell out well in advance — typically by September.
Race Weekend
A 10 km race is held on the Saturday before the marathon, letting companions and non-marathon runners share the atmosphere.
Time Limit
5 hours 30 minutes, with starting corrals organised by estimated finish time for a smooth, safe start.
What's Included
Official technical shirt, timing-chip bib, runner's bag, medical insurance and finisher medal.
Finish
The finish line by the Palau de la Música features spectator stands, big screens and a recovery zone with fruit, drinks and thermal blankets.
WHO IT'S FOR
KNOW WHAT YOU'RE SIGNING UP FOR.
- DIFFICULTY
- Intermediate
- FIRST-TIMERS
- Suitable for a first attempt at this format.
- BEGINNER FIT
- 4/5
DAILY CHORE TAKE
OUR TAKE, OUT OF 10.
THESE ARE OUR OWN EDITORIAL ASSESSMENTS, NOT OFFICIAL RATINGS.
