Antarctic Ice Marathon 2024

The Antarctic Ice Marathon is the annual race that takes place at the foot of the Ellsworth Mountains and a few hundred miles from the South Pole, which makes it the world’s southernmost marathon. This race is a great opportunity to test your stamina in Antarctic conditions, running on snow and ice with a temperature of -20 C° (-4 °F) at an altitude of 2296 feet (700 m). Runners can choose between a classic 26-mile (42-km) marathon or a half marathon. The 62-mile (100-km) ultramarathon race has also been held at the South Pole.

Marathon Itinerary & Schedule

The three-day trip starts several days before the marathon date, on December 9th, when the participants are supposed to arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile, their departure point. The first briefings will take place on December 10th, followed by a rest day on December 11th. On December 12th, the runners board a 4,5-hour flight in Punta Arenas, which takes them to the Union Glacier camp in the heart of the Antarctic. The marathon kicks off the following day, on December 13th. Unfortunately, there will be no cheering crowds in this remote location—even penguins don't live this far south. On December 14th, all participants return to Punta Arenas and are able to return to their home countries the day after.

Marathon Route

The race circles around the Union Glacier camp, with a 6.6-mile (10,55 km) loop repeating four times for the marathon runners. This makes sure the participants are clearly visible from the camp and can be easily reached in case they need aid.

Race Safety

Participants are provided with snowmobile support, aid stations, and medical aid throughout the entire race. Air stations are located every 5 km of the race. The route is marked with flags, guiding the runners, while the nature of the track makes sure that they can stay visible throughout the entire race. It's important to be aware of your body and seek help if you notice any signs of frost damage.

Running Gear & Equipment

To participate in this freezing race, it's recommended to bundle up and wear several layers for optimal protection. The general consensus is that you should wear a base layer, which keeps the sweat away from your body and quickly dries, a warm layer to provide insulation and retain heat, and an outer layer to shield against harsh weather. Participants should also wear a balaclava, face mask, ear protection, and a thermal hat. Gloves, ski goggles, and hand/feet warmers are a must in these extreme conditions.

Registration Cost

The cost of registration is $21,500. The price includes entry to the race of choice, food and accommodation, round-trip flight from Punta Arenas to Union Glacier camp, professional photos of each competitor in action, runners kit (medals, t-shirts, and patches), transfer to and from the Punta Arenas Airport, and all the necessary support along the race course. The cost can either be paid in full or in installments, which all payments due by a specified deadline.

History of the Marathon

Richard Donovan and Polar Running Adventures founded the Antarctic Ice Marathon to give an opportunity to the marathon runners to complete a race on each of the seven continents. The first Antarctic Ice Marathon took place in 2006.