Excluding Antarctica, every continent has a great marathon that is accessible to the everyday runner. Some of these races are world renown, some are lesser known, even to the greatest running enthusiast. What these races share in common is that they offer each participant a unique marathon experience. Whether it be great scenery, flawless organization, or a thrilling and original atmosphere, each of these races from around the globe offers something different to every competitor. Traveling and running will never seem the same after you have trained for, visited and completed these 6 marathons from around the world.
-
Imagine the greatest place on earth, now imagine running through it on beautifully paved roads, majestic bridges, the ocean by your side and some of the best aide stations and volunteers you will ever meet. This is the annual Big Sur marathon and it is easily one the best run and most beautiful marathons in the world. As you run through Big Sur, drums and enthusiastic locals will cheer you on and giant red wood trees and spectacular Cliffside views will be your guide. If running in this event doesn't get you misty eyed, nothing will.
-
If you are headed south, you might as well head to a land of relaxation and fun. The Barbados marathon offers you both a world class marathon and historic course, and the guarantee of a good time afterwards. One of the oldest marathon events in the Caribbean, the Barbados marathon takes participants through 4 historic towns, and along some of the most scenic coastal locations of the island. Although not a large scale event, it has attracted some famous international competitors in the past, including Catherine Ndereba.
-
Held in the foothills of Africa's highest peak, this marathon will take you through small villages and expose you to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, and earthy plantations. With aid stations manned by local seminaries and some of the most rugged terrain in the world, it will test your mind, meddle and give you reason to believe that there still is some places on earth that have not been entirely ruined by mankind.
-
It has often been said that the best way to see a city is to run through it. If this statement holds true, then the beauty of this big city makes this marathon an absolute must. Ending at Sydney's famous Opera House, the marathon course takes participants over the equally famous Sydney Harbor Bridge and around the breathtaking harbor structures of this magnificent city. With over 20,000 participants, you will experience the true nature of Aussie hospitability as you complete the 26mile jaunt.
-
Easily the most breathtaking marathon you will ever experience, it also might be the hardest. With numerous elevation changes and a technical course, the Great Wall will be sure to put your body to the test. The epic scenery of the Tianjin province is more then enough incentive to make the trek, the views alone will leave you short of breath. There is really no better way to experience what is surely one of the greatest creations of ancient civilization, the Great Wall marathon is more of an experience than a race.
-
You can't really say you've done it all until you've visited and completed the actual route that started it all. Beginning at the ancient town of Marathon and ending in the historic Olympic Stadium of Athens, the route covers nearly the same path taken by Phidippides in 490 B.C., who brought news of the Greeks victory over the Persian army and then collapsed and died. Adding to the mystique and significance of this race, it is the same course that was used in the 2004 Olympics. Watch out for mad Irish priests!
Ok, so for the real adventure seekers or for those who just have to be able to tell people they have run a marathon on all seven continents, there are, amazingly, two Antarctic marathons to choose from. This one, held on King George's Island sells out almost immediately every year. Using research structures as aide stations, the price to complete this marathon is not cheap, but the bragging rights it will provide you are priceless.
