Estepona Set for Inaugural Marathon This Sunday

Over 1,700 runners will take to the streets and coastline for the first Maratón de Estepona Jardín de la Costa del Sol

The inaugural Maratón de Estepona Jardín de la Costa del Sol is set to transform the city's streets this Sunday 11 October, bringing an international sporting event to the heart of the community. Residents can anticipate road closures and a vibrant atmosphere as over 1,700 runners embark on a scenic journey through the city and along its coastline.

The official presentation of the Maratón de Estepona Jardín de la Costa del Sol took place on the morning of Friday 9 October, attended by Estepona Mayor José María García Urbano, a key driving force behind this high-level sporting event.

Mayor García Urbano stated that “this first Estepona Marathon is much more than a sporting competition; it is an event that places our city on the international sports map and allows us to showcase our understanding of quality of life, through an authentic experience linked to the Mediterranean and to the Andalusian essence of Estepona.” He highlighted the unique route, which will allow participants to “run by the sea and enjoy a city that offers a unique and surprising setting for a sporting event of these characteristics.” The Mayor added that “a marathon is a huge window open to the world where each runner, each companion and each image that is disseminated during these days will carry the name of Estepona to many places.” He encouraged residents to “be part of this special day and of the sporting celebration that accompanies this event, organised for the enjoyment of all citizens.”

The Route and Logistics

The race will start and finish at the Estadio Municipal de Atletismo de Estepona. The route is described as a journey along the coastal corridor, offering national and international runners picturesque views. A total of 23 kilometres of the Maratón de Estepona Jardín de la Costa del Sol will run along one of the most spectacular coastal stretches in southern Europe.

National athletics legend Martín Fiz, a world and European champion, praised the route. He commented, “The route is beautiful, with sections along the coast, sections through the city. It is not the fastest, but surely those of us who will have the opportunity to debut it will fall in love with everything it offers.” Fiz is confirmed to participate in the event's debut on the international calendar.

Miguel de los Santos, the first Estepona athlete to participate in the Olympic Games and a member of the Club de Atletismo de Estepona, confirmed the club's involvement in designing the marathon route and recruiting over 500 volunteers who will play a significant role in the event. De los Santos expressed confidence that this first marathon will be a success.

Runner packet collection and the Expo Maratón, featuring various stands, are taking place at the Parque Ferial y Deportivo. Packets could be collected on Friday 9 October from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. On Saturday 10 October, collection and Expo Maratón visits are available from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Two additional events are scheduled for Saturday 10 October at the Estadio de Atletismo. A pre-race training session led by Martín Fiz will begin at 11:30 am, followed by a KIDS Race for younger participants at 12:00 pm.

International Appeal and Local Pride

The unique environment, favourable climate, and the premium experience offered by the race, avoiding the crowds of other major national and international marathons, are cited as key to the Maratón de Estepona Jardín de la Costa del Sol's international success.

Foreign participants constitute 48.5% of the total, with a strong presence from the United Kingdom, largely due to the proximity of Málaga and Gibraltar Airports. Other countries with significant contingents include the Netherlands, Ireland, Sweden, Belgium, Poland, and Gibraltar.

The marathon also maintains a strong local identity. Participants from Málaga province make up 36% of the total, with more than 200 Estepona residents set to run, marking a historic day for the city.

This Sunday 11 October, starting at 8:30 am, the streets and coastline of Estepona are expected to be alive with excitement as residents support the more than 1,700 runners creating history in the first Maratón de Estepona Jardín de la Costa del Sol.

The Maratón Costa del Sol is driven by Estepona Town Hall, sponsored by Mancomunidad Costa del Sol Occidental, Azata, Taraje, and Hotel Ikos, and supported by Hidralia, Urbaser, Carrefour, Renault Rombosol, Restaurante El Cielo, Grupo Trocadero, and Afar4.

Further information is available at www.maratoncostadelsol.com.