Tallinn, 13 September 2026 – The Swedbank Tallinn Marathon brought runners from around the world to Estonia’s capital on 11–13 September 2026 for a weekend of competitive racing, standout performances and a vibrant international atmosphere. The programme featured the marathon, half marathon, 10K, Nike Youth Run and other events for participants of all ages.
Swedbank Tallinn Marathon 2026 Delivers Record-Breaking Half Marathon and World-Class Performances
The weekend delivered several memorable sporting highlights, led by a record-breaking half marathon and strong performances from international athletes across the main distances.
Half Marathon Makes History
One of the weekend’s biggest highlights came in Saturday’s half marathon, where Kenya’s Vincent Kiptoo won in 59:48, becoming the first runner to complete the distance in under one hour in Estonia. Latvia’s Janis Girgensons finished second in 1:00:51, followed by Kenya’s Enos Kipruto Saat in 1:01:22.
The women’s race also produced a new course record. Kenya’s Regina Wambui Ndungu won in 1:07:35, ahead of compatriot Winsam Jerono in 1:10:29. Morocco’s Soukaina Atanane completed the podium in 1:11:24.
These performances made the half marathon one of the standout events of the weekend, underlining Tallinn’s growing appeal as a destination for high-level road racing.
Kenyan Runners Take Marathon Victories
Sunday’s marathon brought further international success, with Kenyan athletes winning both the men’s and women’s races.
Evans Kiprono took the men’s title in 2:12:48, finishing ahead of Estonia’s Karel Hussar, who clocked 2:18:41, and fellow Kenyan Donald Kimaru in 2:21:05.
In the women’s race, Vivian Jerotich claimed victory in 2:31:58. Her compatriot Rholex Jelimo finished second in 2:34:19, while Estonia’s Liis-Grete Hussar took third place in 2:38:42.
The women’s race also saw a strong home performance, with the leading Estonian finisher recording a personal best.
Fast Racing Across the Weekend
The 10K added another competitive dimension to Saturday’s programme. Estonia’s Tiidrek Nurme won the men’s race in 30:35, while Minna Kelk took the women’s title in 36:27.
Younger participants also had their moment in the spotlight at the Nike Youth Run 5K, bringing fresh energy to the event and highlighting the marathon weekend’s appeal beyond elite competition.
A City Marathon with International Appeal
Beyond the results, the Swedbank Tallinn Marathon offered runners a distinctive urban experience, combining the Estonian capital’s historic surroundings with coastal scenery and a varied city course.
Saturday’s shorter races benefited from pleasant autumn sunshine, while Sunday’s marathon runners faced cooler, wetter conditions that added to the challenge of the 42.195-kilometre distance.
Efficient event organisation, comprehensive race-day services and a compact event hub helped create a smooth experience for participants and spectators. The international field and enthusiastic support along the course contributed to the atmosphere throughout the weekend.
With a combination of high-level competition, a varied race programme and the opportunity to explore one of the Baltic region’s most distinctive capitals, the 2026 edition reinforced Tallinn’s appeal as a destination for runners from across the world.
