San Sebastián Marathon Sun, November 23, 2025
Source: https://zurichmaratonsansebastian.com/en/
🏅 World Marathon Majors Qualifiers
The Zurich Maratón San Sebastián has a rich history, being the second-oldest marathon in Spain and one of the oldest in Europe.
Here are the key points in its history:
- Foundation: The marathon was first held in 1978. The idea was conceived by a group of local athletics enthusiasts, with Rafa Puignau being described as the “creator and ideologue” behind the race.
- Early Days: The first edition was described as a “home-made marathon,” with an initially challenging course measurement and manual timing.
- Significance: It is a major sporting event in San Sebastián, a city recognized for its great athletic tradition, which also hosted the World Marathon Cup in 1993.
- Sponsorship: The race has been known as the Zurich Maratón San Sebastián since 2016 when Zurich Seguros became the title sponsor. This partnership has helped boost its international profile, making it part of the Zurich Big 5 Circuit.
- Course and Records: The route is known for being flat and at sea level, making it ideal for runners aiming for a personal best (PB).
- The current Spanish Women’s marathon record (2h 26′ 51”) was set at the event in 1995 by Ana Isabel Alonso, and it still stands as the event record for a Spanish woman.
- The current Women’s course record is (2h 23′ 09”), set by Rebecca Sirwanei Tanui (Kenya).
The event typically attracts thousands of participants each year and is a blend of sports tourism and local celebration.
