When it comes to marathons, Albi is a city of experience. The race has been bringing marathoners together around the mythical Saint Cecilia Cathedral for more than thirty years. An increasingly popular destination since the cathedral was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010. The Albi marathon is now a real sporting and cultural event.

Practical information

date: like many other races in France, the Albi marathon is organized on the last weekend of April. The 2015 edition will be on April 26th. An ideal time to come and discover the richness of the city, but also of the Tarn region.

registration date: registration is still possible a few days before the race depending on the number of participants. It is nevertheless advisable to register as early as possible for obvious logistical and organisational reasons.

maximum number of participants: despite its experience, the Albi Marathon remains a marathon on a human scale. Around 500 runners take part in the marathon every year, giving the event ideal running conditions. In 2014, there were 488 finishers.

price: to participate in the Albi marathon, you need to count 27.5 €, a more than affordable price considering the seniority and experience of the event.

registration: registration is mainly done online on the dedicated website or on site at the Albi marathon office. It is possible to follow your registration in real time on the event site.

other races: Albi also offers a half marathon and allows runners to participate in the marathon in relays. Elsewhere in France, the Nantes Marathon and the Azay-le-Rideau Marathon are held at the same time.

The course

interest: the Albi marathon is a great opportunity to discover the Episcopal city of Albi classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since summer 2010 and part of the Tarn valley. The first loop takes place in town over 7.6 km and the second takes the historical marathon route, passes through Saint-Juéry and makes a round trip in the Tarn valley with a passage through two tunnels. The finish is on the athletics track at the Albi stadium.

Difficulty: the route mixes a part city and a part nature. It is rather accessible and performance-oriented for the most seasoned runners.

elevation gain: the course is relatively flat. There is only one small difficulty to report on the Renaudié coast at the exit of Saint-Juéry on the way back.

temperature: the city of Albi is known for its clement weather with temperatures that can be very high in summer. At the end of April it can be between 8 °C and 19 °C. Some participants remember a strong heat on the Albi marathon. Be sure to check the weather forecast to make sure your equipment is suitable.

refreshment: for the comfort of the runners, refreshment stations are set up every 5 km along the course.

services at the finish: runners will be able to benefit from a catering point with a special post-race menu including regional specialities.

For more information, please visit the event website