Fulhadhoo Marathon

The Fulhadhoo Marathon takes place on a very small siland which can accommodate approx. 100-150 tourists. You need to book accommodation asap since the island guest houses are slowly being sold out.

The Maldives don't host many marathon events, and those that do occur often take place in less appealing locations or during less favorable seasons. That's why I came up with the idea of organizing an official running event on one of the Maldives' most beautiful islands - Fulhadhoo, scheduled for February, when the weather is at its best. This intimate, non-commercial island, still largely untouched by tourism, offers everything that makes the Maldives a paradise: a crystal-clear ocean, stunning beaches, sandbanks, a reef teeming with baby sharks and rays, lush vegetation with coconut palms, a quaint fishing village, and friendly locals. The island also boasts delicious food and affordable accommodation, all without the nuisance of bugs—though there are some ants and mosquitoes. Its terrestrial fauna includes various birds, free-roaming chickens, and a few cats.

For active visitors, Fulhadhoo offers numerous attractions like diving, snorkeling, water sports, and fishing. The island has several shops and cafes, a playing field, a mosque, a small hospital, and a harbor. The weather is consistently warm, ranging from 28-30 degrees during the day to 26 degrees at night, with a gentle breeze and high humidity. The sun is very strong, so sunscreen and hats are necessary.

Participants in the marathon will receive personalized bibs, bespoke medals, refreshments at the start/finish line (water and snacks), official timing (if not feasible, self-timing without pauses is accepted), and access to guesthouse toilets along the route. Prizes will be awarded to the top male and female runners.

Logistics include flights to Malé, Maldives, followed by boat transfers to and from Fulhadhoo, costing USD 130 per person. The speedboat journey, an adventure in itself, covers over 120 km in two hours, reaching speeds of up to 41 knots (we'll ask the helmsman to add one knot—a little marathoner’s joke).

Note: Accommodations on the island are limited, with only 100-150 guests at any given time. It's crucial to book early as the island is likely to sell out. Locals prefer bookings via their websites or WhatsApp over traditional platforms.

The Ministry of Sports, Fitness, and Recreation of the Republic of Maldives has approved the organization of the Fulhadhoo Marathon.