Latvian legendary athlete Jeļena Prokopčuka will run the full marathon at the Rimi Riga Marathon
8 January 2025In honor of the Rimi Riga Marathon’s 35th anniversary, the most awarded long-distance runner, Jeļena Prokopčuka, will run the full marathon distance as an elite runner for the last time. The legendary runner together with thousands of other runners from all over the world will step on the start line on May 18, 2025.
Jeļena Prokopčuka is Latvia’s marathon record holder, with a time of 2:22:56 set at the Osaka Marathon in 2005. She is also a two-time New York Marathon winner, claiming victories in 2005 and 2006. Representing Latvia in Olympic Games, she has inspired countless runners and played a pivotal role in establishing a strong running culture in Latvia. Jeļena Prokopčuka has previously participated in the 5-kilometer and half-marathon events at the Rimi Riga Marathon, making her decision to compete in the full marathon this year a significant moment for the Rimi Riga Marathon team.
Jeļena has always been incredibly close to the Rimi Riga Marathon – both at schools and during training, she has never refused to offer her advice. However, one factor that has always bothered our team over the years is the question – what if we created a marathon in Riga so that Jeļena wouldn’t have to travel to New York anymore? This is something we’ve always dreamed of, and this year – on the 35th anniversary of the Rimi Riga Marathon – that dream will come true!
Aigars Nords
Founder of Rimi Riga Marathon
The decision to run marathon for Jelena Prokopčuka was long but well-considered one. Although the athlete has not set any high goals for now, the upcoming marathon will be a big challenge.
I am really very curious to see what level I can reach in the marathon in May. Running through the streets of Riga will be both a big challenge and a responsibility. During the preparation process, I will need to train seriously – at least five times a week. I am very happy and proud that we have such a wonderful high-level event in Latvia, in Riga, as the Rimi Riga Marathon. I’ve run in New York, Boston, Chicago, and London, and if you compare, we are at that level!
Jeļena Prokopčuka
long-distance runner
Running the marathon this year won’t be Jeļena’s only event with the Rimi Riga Marathon, as she, together with long-distance runner Anita Siliņa, will prepare 12 participants of the ‘My First Marathon’ program for their first half marathon or marathon.
