The atmosphere at the Rojas Ultramarathon Festival was great, as the participants could not only enjoy mutual encouragement and support while running, but also the fun time together before and after the race. Also this year, when the number of participants is planned to increase, there will be a great atmosphere. In 2024, the organizers also took care of a special thing to note, that is, the bronze label of the International Association of Ultramarathon Runners (IAU Bronze Label) was awarded to this ultramarathon championship, and 2025 is no exception.
Also this year, for this important competition – the Rojas Ultramarathon Festival – three different races and a race track are planned. The longest of them will be the 24-hour race, where runners will fight for the Latvian championship medal sets for the second year in a row. In addition to the 24-hour race, the organizers have for the first time included a classic marathon of 42.195 km, where the circle of the ultra-marathon distance will have to be completed 34 times, and also offer the usual 12-hour night race and 6-hour Ultra sprint, so those interested in running will be able to choose the race that suits them best. The length of the track circle will be the same 1234.7 m, the surface will be the stadium and the asphalt of the nearest streets.
Last year, more than thirty participants competed in the longest and most prestigious distance. The best results of women and men in the national championship were very similar. Sigita Vāce-Vecvagare won for women with 216.593km, while Ritvars Lërme was the best of our men with 215.275km. On the other hand, Lithuanian Nerijus Buividas, who has 222.5km on his account, took the laurels in the absolute evaluation of the 24h race. The legendary runner and now veteran Viktors Suborins also made a mark at the Rojas Ultramarathon Festival with 67km.
In 2025, runners will have another chance to test their abilities and also overcome inner doubts, trying to break the limits set. However, this does not mean that only those who plan to run 100 kilometers or more can start, because everyone can participate, because everyone will be able to choose how long to run, even one lap, because this gives the participant the opportunity to be registered as a participant of the Latvian championship.
The course, which is certified by World Athletics – AIMS, is fast because it is flat – without ups and downs. The organizers have specially created it so that every participant can achieve a personal record. But the Rojas Ultramarathon Festival is not just about records. Participants will be able to enjoy the fresh air of the seaside and pine forests.
At the end of May, the Rojas Ultramarathon Festival will not be the only running event in Rojas, because for the third year in a row, the Rojas Half Marathon Festival will be held on July 12, where in addition to the 21km distance, there are also 12.3km and 3km.
Register the start at www.sportlat.lv and see you in Roja!