The “My First Marathon 2026” programme is ready to begin a new adventure!
16 January 2026On January 28, 12 participants will begin their journey toward their first half marathon or marathon at the Rimi Riga Marathon.
The program brings together 12 socially active ambassadors from different fields, united by a shared challenge and a goal to inspire others to move more and aim higher.
Over 16 weeks, the runners receive full support on their journey to their first major race on May 17. Training is led by experienced coaches, with individual plans, group sessions, and strength training included.
Longtime program coach Anita Siliņa-Kažemāka shares that working with participants brings her genuine joy. She says the greatest reward is seeing each person’s progress and small victories, and her goal is to help participants fall in love with running and make it a part of everyday life – a way to release stress, recharge, and gain energy.
Meanwhile, Ilona Marhele notes that although the aspiring runners are all very different, they are united by a common goal – completing a half marathon or a marathon. She is inspired by each participant’s journey, from the small steps and insights to the challenges and experiences along the way, and finds special joy in seeing the love of movement continue long after the program ends.
