End of season Nordic atmosphere

The race was started in 2006. The first Saturday in November was chosen to offer a race at the end of the running season. Due to the mild climate on the southwest coast in Norway the temperature is perfect for running at this time of the year; typically 6–8ºC.

137 runners completed the first race but its popularity rapidly outgrew the venue. A large exhibition hall was needed to serve the runners before and after the race. The start and finish line is adjacent to the hall. Finisher numbers have risen to 2,300.

The 15-year anniversary was meant to be held last year but even stricter covid regulations were introduced just two days before the race and even the downsized event planned had to be cancelled. We now look forward to celebrating the anniversary in 2021.

Between projected finish times of 1:25 and 2:30, there is a race pacer every five minutes. This is really appreciated by the participants who find it of great help in reaching their target times. The race pacers are well known for their friendly and supportive approach.

The lakes are Stavanger’s most popular running spot thanks to their beauty and the surrounding nature. We believe we can lay claim to offering Norway’s most beautiful half marathon. Around 80% of the route is on gravel which provides a very good running surface. 

Due to its end of season date, prize money and being one of the country’s biggest half marathons, the race attracts many of Norway’s best long-distance runners. The course records are held by Ørjan Grønnevig (1:05:02) and Pernilla Epland (1:14:35).

After 16km, when most start to tire, runners meet a 550m hill. Tackling this challenge and completing the race contributes to the incredible feeling of achievement. The last hurdle before the finish line is to run up to a bicycle roundabout, which is decorated with tiles in different colours and where there are lots of people cheering you on and waving the national flag.

The race has a long tradition of offering a stew to the participants after the race. The hot food tastes really great inside the heated exhibition hall. Every participant gets a medal and can buy a t-shirt as a souvenir from the race. 

This year’s race will bring an increased focus on recycling.

Norway means “the way to the North”, as characterised by the long coastline. Home of the Vikings, the country is nowadays known for its Nordic welfare model and its high standard of living. We are currently blessed with having two top-class international athletes, the local hero Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Karsten Warholm.

Stavanger is Norway’s fourth largest city. It has thrived because of the energy industry, which has its national centre here. The city is characterised by its seaside location, its many low wooden houses and the small but pleasant downtown area. 

www.3sjoers.no/en/