Short history – big developments

SwissCityMarathon – Lucerne
Sun 31 October 2021

The SwissCityMarathon – Lucerne is a relative youngster on the running event scene but, after a handful of editions, the event quickly established itself as a constant in the running calendar. The first “Lucerne Marathon” in 2007 had around 5000 runners and continued to develop steadily until it became today’s “SwissCityMarathon – Lucerne” with 11,000 runners.

At its heart lies the unique course which combines the so-called “City of Lights” (Lucerne) the marvellous Lake Lucerne and the impressive Swiss Alps. This route creates unforgettable experiences and memories for the participants. Thanks to the support of the population and the numerous volunteers an enthusiastic atmosphere is created that accompanies the runners constantly. The event would be inconceivable without the support of the authorities and sponsors brought together by the organising committee who work at full power to offer runners a change from what they have had before – each year is a unique experience:

2007: First Lucerne Marathon incl. half marathon & beginner marathon (13km).

2008: Finish in front of the Swiss Museum of Transport

2009: First run into today’s finish arena in the Swiss Museum of Transport

2010: First time more than 9000 participants

2011: Passage through the new built train tunnel/New category: 5MileRun (8.6km)

2012: First run through the Culture & Convention Centre Lucerne (KKL)/“the snow marathon of Lucerne”.

2013: Route integration of the historic Lucerne Old Town/renaming to “SwissCityMarathon – Lucerne”.

2014: Finish alongside the Alinghi (original winning ship of the 2007 Americas Cup)

2015: Incorporation of the national marathon championship

2016: First run through the football stadium of FC Lucerne / New category: DuoMarathon (relay 2 x half marathon) / 10th anniversary

2017: Welcoming the first guest country Germany / New category: 10KM

2018: Integration of free travel for all participants by public transport / AIMS Green Award 2018 / UNICEF Extra Mile.

2019: Widening of the finish area / Launch of the “Swiss Trailrun Pilatus”

2020: First virtual staging of the event

But what happens in 2021? It is certain that a different marathon will take place and this is a challenge that the OC has fully embraced. Plans are being made for individual starts, adapted running routes and alternative start number distribution. All the necessary hygiene and protection measures will be implemented. The goal is to put on a sporting event for the public that is constantly evolving and that ensures unforgettable experiences. SwissCityMarathon – Lucerne will do everything in its power to run the event safely and memorably on 31 October 2021.

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