International Ambassadors
Running is more than just a sport – it’s a movement, a lifestyle, and a way to connect. This year, we’re once again opening our doors to passionate runners from all around the Europe – but with a fresh approach!
Instead of handpicking ambassadors, we’re launching an open application for our 2026 Ambassador Program. If you’re an inspiring voice in the running community who loves sharing authentic stories about running, travel, and healthy living – we want you on board!
The program is created together with Riga and Latvia Travel.
What’s included for our selected ambassadors:
• Free registration for the Rimi Riga Marathon (any distance)
• Travel costs covered to and from Riga
• Accommodation for 2 nights in Riga
• Curated dinners at some of the city’s top dining spots & guided tours of the most significant sights
• Accommodation for 1 night in the Riga region (including covered travel to and from the region and specially curated activities to explore Latvia beyond the capital city)
All activities will be planned around your running schedule and coordinated with you to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
What we expect from you:
• Create and share engaging content before, during, and after your visit to Latvia and participation in the Rimi Riga Marathon 2026
• Provide performance insights (reach, engagement, and other metrics) after the event)
• Tag all three involved parties in any related content you create:
Who can apply:
We will select up to 8 ambassadors to join this year’s program. Each chosen ambassador will receive detailed guidelines and an individual content plan after the application process closes.
Last years' international ambassadors:
Augustė Augustinaitė & Henry Warren-Jones, UK
Augustė and Henry are a triathlete couple from London. After meeting 2 years ago, Henry has inspired Augustė to take cycling and swimming seriously, while Augustė got Henry into running.
They’ve been participating in various races all over the world, having recently competed in Sydney, Dubai and Copenhagen, whilst also quickly progressing in their careers – as a corporate trust professional, providing security and bespoke finance solutions for companies, and a chartered engineer, developing world class arenas and stadiums all over the world.
Travelling, racing and running is a big part of their lives – it’s the best way to relax, structure the thoughts and efficiently explore new places! The power couple, as they call each other, plan to run the half marathon at the Rimi Riga Marathon.
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Jens van der Velden, the Netherlands
Jens is an uplifting fitness content creator, known for his infectious energy and motivating videos. Having completed multiple marathons and half-marathons, he’s built a supportive community that follows his inspiring fitness journey. He can’t wait to run the Half-Marathon with everyone in Riga.
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Charlie Watson, UK
Charlie is a Registered dietitian, 16 times marathon and Six Star finisher. She balances running with her hospital work, parenting her overactive 2 year old and sharing her training at therunnerbeans.com and @therunnerbeans. Charlie is hoping to run a PB at the Rimi Riga Half Marathon!
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Cosimo Bertotto, Italy
In Riga, Cosimo will run his 45th marathon. He also runs on trails but loves the warmth of the people he gets during a road marathon. Running and talking about his races on social media has, over time, become a source of inspiration for many people. “I don’t like chasing a time result but I love telling what I see along the way,” says Cosimo.
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