Marathon Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich: passion and energy in the city

With great excitement, we launch this small space on our new website, dedicated to our three unique tourist apartments, lovingly designed in different corners of the Valencian Community.

Here, we will share useful information about events, activities, and special plans taking place throughout the year, so you can make the most of your stay with us.

And we couldn’t start off in a better way than with one of the most anticipated events: the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich Marathon 2025, which will take place on December 5, 2025, in the city of Valencia.

Considered one of the best marathons in the world, this event brings together thousands of runners from all over the globe, who race through the streets of Valencia in an atmosphere full of energy, joy, and excitement.

The course runs through some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and the finish line — next to the stunning City of Arts and Sciences — makes the ending an unforgettable experience for both participants and spectators alike.

A little bit of history

The Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich Marathon was born in 1981, as an initiative of the sports club Sociedad Deportiva Correcaminos, with the aim of bringing running closer to the city — a club that had been championing popular athletics since the late 1970s.

The Valencia Marathon, like the London Marathon which also began that same year, was created from the desire to organize a long-distance race for the public. Around 800 people took part in that first edition. The race started on the Paseo de la Alameda, not in Plaça de la Marató, located in the City of Arts and Sciences, where the finish line is now set.

That very first marathon in the city could hardly be called “Valencia Marathon,” as the course barely touched the city itself. Runners made their way all the way to La Albufera, competing under conditions very different from those of today — with strong winds and long, straight stretches of highway that seemed to go on forever.

Little by little, the organizers and the city began to understand the scale of the event and decided to gradually bring the course into the urban center. This shift started in the 1990s, when efforts were already underway to carve out a place for the marathon in the heart of the city.

Valencia innovates in the 21st century to become the City of Running

Over the years, the race has established itself as one of the most prestigious marathons in the world, recognized with the Platinum Label by World Athletics, the highest international distinction.

Every year, it attracts more than 30,000 runners, along with thousands of visitors who fill Valencia’s hotels, apartments, and streets.

In October 2024, the city faced a difficult moment due to a DANA (isolated high-altitude depression) and the severe flooding that affected the entire region. The marathon was on the verge of being cancelled, but thanks to the efforts of the organizers, volunteers, and local authorities, it was ultimately held.

That edition became a symbol of resilience, showcasing Valencia’s ability to overcome adversity and keep alive one of its most iconic and internationally renowned events — known for its fast course, outstanding organization, and festive atmosphere.

A home for runners

Although our website is new, our Loft in Ruzafa has been hosting runners from all over the world for nearly nine years now.

It’s amazing to see how, on the very same day the marathon ends, the apartments are already being booked for the following year — even earlier than during Fallas season, one of the most beloved times of year for the people of Valencia.

The soul of the Valencia Marathon

Talking about the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich Marathon means talking about passion, dedication, and Valencian pride.

Every year, the streets come alive, turning into a vibrant stage where runners and spectators come together to experience one of the most thrilling sporting events.

The marathon brings together flawless organization, a fast and flat course, and an unmatched atmosphere that captivates everyone involved.

It’s no coincidence that many athletes choose Valencia to achieve their personal bests—or even break world records.

But beyond the sport itself, the marathon reflects the spirit of the city: every street, every cheer, and every smile shows the warm and enthusiastic nature of the Valencian people, turning the race into a true collective celebration.

With over four decades of history, the Valencia Marathon has not only placed the city on the international athletics map, but also strengthened its identity as the “City of Running.”

Year after year, Valencia proves that running here is more than just sport—it’s about living an emotion, feeling the energy of the Mediterranean, and being part of something truly special.

Description of the historical route of the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Marathon Zurich

1981: The first edition

The 29th of March was celebrated as the first marathon, which included 640 corredores, of those who were solo women. So comes the history of the Valencia Marathon, one of the most emblematic of the running world.

1984: The Longest-Standing Record

Vicente Antón Pastrana sets a remarkable time of 2h14:01, a record that stood unchallenged for 17 years. That same year, Juana Pablos becomes the first woman to run under three hours, marking a turning point in women’s participation in the Valencia Marathon.

1988: Valencia Hosts the Spanish Marathon Championships

Hosting the Spanish National Marathon Championships convinces the City Council to authorize a fully urban course the following year. Valencia continues to establish itself as a city of running and major sporting events.

1989: First Urban Course

It took nine years, but the marathon finally runs entirely within the city. Still, much needed improvement: runners shared the road with traffic, and the winner was nearly hit by a car. A crucial transition phase for the evolution of the Trinidad Alfonso Zurich Marathon.

1991: The Year of the Downpour

A massive rainstorm doesn’t stop Elisenda Pucurrull, who wins for the third consecutive year—something no one else has achieved—setting her best time of 2h43:14. A testament to the strength and passion of Valencian women runners.

1993: Finish Line Moves to the Turia Track

After twelve years in the Alameda, the finish line is relocated to the athletics track at Estadio del Turia, where local runner Mónica Pont becomes Spanish champion. This move reinforces the marathon’s sporting identity.

1995 & 1996: A Handicapped Start

In an attempt to stand out, a new format allows veterans and women to start earlier, giving them a chance at the overall win. This innovative approach reflects the marathon’s ongoing search for balance and fairness.

2002: María Abel’s Showcase

Galician runner María Abel wins the marathon with a time of 2h28:08, a record that stood until 2013. A truly memorable edition in the history of the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich Marathon.

2010: Breaking a Barrier

Kenyan David Njali becomes the first to break the 2h10 mark in Valencia, finishing in 2h09:45. Valencia’s course starts gaining attention as one of the fastest in the world.

2011: The Year of Change

The marathon moves from spring to November, with both the start and finish at the City of Arts and Sciences. More than 5,000 runners finish the race — a new era begins for those choosing Valencia as their marathon destination.

2012: The Big Boost

The Trinidad Alfonso Foundation begins to support the marathon, providing the push it needs to become a major international race. The Valencia Marathon earns a place on the global calendar.

2013: Women Make Their Mark

For the first time in 33 years, over 1,000 women cross the finish line — a huge leap from the seven in the first edition. A clear sign of the growth of women’s running in Valencia.

2014: More Than 10,000 Finishers

Participation continues to grow, and this year sees over 10,000 runners reaching the finish line. The Valencia Marathon cements its place as one of the most popular races in the world.

2018: Among the World’s Fastest

Ethiopian runner Leule Gebreselassie clocks 2h04:31, placing Valencia among the top ten fastest marathons on the planet. The city becomes a prime destination for runners chasing personal bests.

2019: Platinum Label Achieved

Ethiopian Roza Dereje finishes in 2h18:30, and for the first time, four women run under 2h19. Her compatriot Kinde Atanaw Alayew sets a new men’s course record of 2h03:51.

More than 21,200 runners cross the finish line, including 4,000 women. This landmark edition earns Valencia the coveted Platinum Label from World Athletics, the highest international recognition.

Recent publications of the Valencia Marathon

2020: Elite in times of pandemic

The 2020 edition took place on December 6th with a limited format due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the restrictions, the marathon stood out for its exceptionally high competitive level.

Kenyan runner Evans Chebet won the men’s race with a time of 2:03:00, while fellow Kenyan Peres Jepchirchir claimed victory in the women’s race with 2:17:16.

In addition, the event was recognized as one of the fastest marathons in the world that year.

2021: Recovery and records

The 2020 edition took place on December 6th under a restricted format due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the limitations, the event stood out for its remarkable competitive level.

Kenya’s Evans Chebet won the men’s race with an impressive time of 2:03:00, while Peres Jepchirchir, also from Kenya, triumphed in the women’s category with a time of 2:17:16.

The race was ultimately recognized as one of the fastest marathons in the world that year.

2022: The “Marathon of Marathons”

The 2022 edition, held on December 4th, was nicknamed the “Marathon of Marathons” due to the exceptional quality of the times recorded.

Kenyan runner Kelvin Kiptum won the men’s race with a stunning time of 2:01:53, while Ethiopian Amane Beriso claimed victory in the women’s race with 2:14:58.

Both performances were considered among the fastest in the event’s history, further cementing Valencia’s reputation as the City of Running.

2023: Records and massive participation

The 2023 edition, held on December 3rd, saw a record-breaking participation of over 30,000 runners.

Ethiopian Sisay Lemma won the men’s race with a remarkable time of 2:01:48, while fellow Ethiopian Worknesh Degefa claimed victory in the women’s race with 2:15:51.

Both times rank among the fastest ever recorded in the history of the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich Marathon.

2024: Tribute and solidarity

The 2023 edition, held on December 3rd, attracted a record-breaking field of over 30,000 runners.

Ethiopia’s Sisay Lemma clinched the men’s title with an outstanding time of 2:01:48, while compatriot Worknesh Degefa triumphed in the women’s race, finishing in 2:15:51.

Both performances stand among the fastest ever recorded in the history of the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich Marathon.

Hope that my first entry into the entertainment and entertainment is as much as my writing… and record: all lists to ride the shoes and join the 2025 Trinidad Alfonso Zurich Marathon. 🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️ ¡Our passions are in the meta with energy, illusion and good company!