History of the Marathon Lanzarote: from its beginnings to the present
The Marathon Lanzarote is a race with more than three decades of existence that attracts runners from all over the world every year, attracted by the competition but also by the attraction of running in a unique coastal environment.
In the 2022 edition, the winners were Ciaran McGonagle and Yvonne Van Vlerken, with times of 2:33:27 and 2:55:59, respectively.
The all-time best in the men’s category belongs to Gary O’Hanlon, who won with a time of 2:27:20 in 2017, improving his own record from the previous year, when he also won the race.
In the women’s category, the best record belongs to Aroa Merino, who won with a time of 2:47:48 in 2019.
Itinerary of the Marathon Lanzarote: unique landscapes and routes
One of the main attractions of the Marathon Lanzarote is that it takes place in a completely coastal environment, including the towns of Costa Teguise, Arrecife, San Bartolomé, and Puerto del Carmen.
The race will start at 8 am on the Avenida de las Islas Canarias in Costa Teguise, in front of the Sands Beach Resort of Lanzarote. It will pass by emblematic places of the island of Lanzarote, such as the El Jablillo beach, the Charco de San Ginés, or the San Gabriel Castle until it reaches the finish line in the well-known Los Pocillos beach.
It is an urban circuit on asphalt with a limit time of six hours for the participants.
Tips for participants: how to prepare for the challenge in Lanzarote
A challenge such as the Marathon Lanzarote must be prepared thoroughly because, although the landscape is breathtaking, the conditions of the race are not so wonderful Follow these tips:
- Study the itinerary and don’t go blind. Remember that the terrain, the altitude, and weather conditions have an impact on your performance
- Train specifically for the distance you want to run.
- Wear the right clothing and footwear to avoid discomfort and injuries.
- Don’t forget to use sunscreen, even if the race is in December.
- Hydration is essential, as is a good diet to have energy. Pay attention to the refreshment points.
- Stretching exercises will help you recover after the effort.
And, although it is a tough race and you should focus on your goal, don’t forget that the Lanzarote Marathon is also designed to enjoy the surroundings.
Categories and distances: from the half marathon to the ultra
The Marathon Lanzarote has different categories, so it is open to almost all ages:
- Senior: 16-34 years old
- Veteran A: 35-39 years old
- Veteran B: 40-44 years old
- Veteran C: 45-49 years old
- Veteran D: 50-54 years old
- Veteran E: 55-59 years old
- Veteran F: 60-64 years old
- Veteran G: 65-69 years old
- Veteran H: over 70 years old
In addition, the competition is divided into three races:
- Marathon
- Half marathon
- 10 km
There is also a special ‘conejero’ classification, which recognises the first men and women born in Lanzarote to reach the finish line, although they no longer live on the island.
Logistical aspects: registration, accommodation, and number pick-up
Registration for the Marathon Lanzarote is open until the 26th of November 2023 and must be done online at the official website of the race.
The number is personal and non-transferable, and you have to pick it up in person, by showing your ID card or passport, between the 30th of November and the 1st of December, between 9 am and 9 pm on the Zona Expo ( in front of the Sands Beach Resort of Lanzarote, where the official race will star). Those who don’t have it won’t be able to participate in the marathon.
This means that, if you are going to participate in the race and you are not from the island, you will have to look for accommodation. In our hotel search engine, you can book directly, comparing the different options available. Keep in mind that you won’t be the only person travelling to Lanzarote to participate in the race, so we recommend you plan your stay in advance.
