Aberdeen to run Europe’s coolest marathon – Daily Business Magazine

A cooler climate will be ideal for runners and provide an economic boost for the city, writes TERRY MURDEN

Following the sold-out success of its half-marathon, Aberdeen is now preparing to host its first full-scale version next summer when it believes the city’s cooler climate will work in its favour. Organisers say it will become one of Scotland’s flagship sporting events and attract interest from across Europe.

Temperatures at the start line of the half-marathon were 15 degrees, demonstrating that while much of the UK sweltered in a heatwave, Aberdeen is a unique location for a European summer marathon. 

It will take place on Saturday 17 July 2027, alongside the return of the half marathon and a new 5K. Entries are open, with runners being urged to secure their place early after the inaugural half marathon sold out in just six days before additional places were released to meet demand.

The marathon will start and finish in the city centre and showcase Aberdeen’s city streets, coastline and green spaces, building on the overwhelmingly positive response to this year’s event.

Organiser Steve Gray said the half-marathon exceeded expectations. “To see thousands of runners and supporters filling Duthie Park and lining the route has been an incredible moment for Aberdeen and everyone who has worked so hard to bring this event to life.

“The response to the Hydrasun Half Marathon has shown there is a real appetite for a major running festival in the north-east, and we’re delighted to confirm that the Aberdeen Marathon will join the programme in 2027. We believe this event can become a major reason for people to visit the city year after year.

“Next year’s event also falls on the same weekend as The Open at St Andrews, creating a fantastic long weekend of world-class sport in Scotland.

“After seeing the incredible welcome the Tartan Army received from supporters across North America this summer, we hope Scotland’s renewed international reputation for warmth, hospitality and celebration will encourage even more overseas visitors to experience everything this country has to offer. We want the Aberdeen Marathon to become part of that international story.”

Bob Drummond, executive chairman at half-marathon sponsor Hydrasun, added: “Today has shown exactly what Aberdeen is capable of when the city comes together behind a shared ambition. Thousands of runners, volunteers and spectators have created an incredible atmosphere and demonstrated there is real demand for a major running festival in the north-east.

“This was always about much more than one event. It is about creating something that people look forward to every year, showcasing Aberdeen to new audiences and generating lasting economic benefits for local businesses, hotels, restaurants and attractions.

“The launch of the Aberdeen Marathon is the natural next step. We have seen what this city can achieve, and now we have an opportunity to build an event that earns a place on the calendar for runners from across the UK and around the world.”

The events are organised by the not-for-profit Aberdeen Marathon Company, whose ambition is to establish Aberdeen as one of the UK’s leading destinations for running events while generating significant economic benefits for the city and region.

Entries for all 2027 events are now open at https://aberdeenmarathon.org/

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