Run under the midnight sun with Svalbard Turn

In the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard, where glaciers frame the horizon and the midnight sun hangs high above the mountains in June, one sports club has long brought together people through endurance, community, and a love of the polar landscape. Once again, Svalbard Turn is hosting its annual Spitsbergen Marathon – a race like no other, held on the edge of the world.

The story of Svalbard Turn stretches back nearly a century. While sports were practised informally in Longyearbyen as early as the 1910s, it was not until 1930 that Svalbard Turn was officially founded. It emerged out of a need for community, camaraderie, and healthy recreation among the mining town’s early residents – many of whom endured long, dark winters and intense physical labour deep underground.

“Svalbard Turn is a sports club that provides diverse sports activities for our community,” says general manager Elisabeth Leinan Johannessen.

Early on, the club focused on disciplines such as gymnastics, shooting, and skiing, with notable figures like Joakim Lindholm and Einar Sverdrup championing its development. Backed by the mining company Store Norske, which understood the value of physical well-being for its workers, Svalbard Turn quickly became central to life in Longyearbyen.

From its humble beginnings in gathering places like Gammelfæmma to its current home in Svalbardhallen, the club has grown alongside the town. Today, it offers everything from football and volleyball to climbing, swimming, miniature shooting, and chess – in 2024, it even launched a new alpine ski slope. But perhaps nowhere is its spirit of community and challenge more evident than during the summertime signature event.

The world’s northernmost running adventure

Spitsbergen Marathon was first organised in 1994, and over the past three decades, it has become one of Svalbard Turn’s most beloved and high-profile events. Held in early June, when the archipelago is bathed in 24-hour daylight, the race invites participants to run through open tundra, along fjords and past reindeer, seabirds, and stunning Arctic views – all under the surreal glow of the midnight sun.

“It’s with great joy that we at Svalbard Turn can welcome both visitors and locals to what we believe is the world’s most beautiful running adventure here on Svalbard,” says Johannessen. “This is more than just a marathon. It’s a celebration of life in the Arctic.”

Despite Svalbard’s intimidating reputation, early summer conditions are surprisingly welcoming. Temperatures are usually above freezing, the snow has largely melted, and the route – though tough – is well maintained and undeniably beautiful. The course winds along the roads in and around Longyearbyen, giving runners an immersive taste of the wild and wonderful north.

The start and finish line is at Svalbardhallen, the club’s bustling modern sports facility. Participants are encouraged to arrive early and soak in the atmosphere – and perhaps even spot an Arctic fox or reindeer along the way.

Run under the midnight sun with Svalbard Turn

“Our goal has always been to encourage a healthy lifestyle for everyone,” Johannessen explains. “From young children trying out sports for the first time to seasoned athletes testing their limits, we want to be a space where people can come together and thrive.”

Events like Spitsbergen Marathon bring this mission to life – inviting runners, volunteers, and spectators to share a moment of Arctic magic. And if you are feeling nervous about the wildlife, do not fret, there will be polar bear guards on site!

Whether chasing a personal best or a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Spitsbergen Marathon offers both – with a view that truly takes your breath away. So pack your running shoes, look to the endless daylight, and join the community at Svalbard Turn for a race at the top of the world.

Run under the midnight sun with Svalbard Turn

www.svalbardturn.no
www.spitsbergenmarathon.no