“Stipro Skrējiens 2026” held at Cinevilla – a challenging day brings together more than 3,500 participants and supporters

Last Saturday, 2 May, one of Latvia’s most anticipated active recreation events of the year – “Stipro Skrējiens 2026” – took place at the Cinevilla film town. Summery weather and a positively charged atmosphere drew large numbers of challenge-seekers from all over Latvia and neighbouring countries, who tested their strength, endurance and courage on the obstacle course, competing both individually and as part of teams.

Over the years, this demanding obstacle race has become an enduring tradition for countless active-lifestyle enthusiasts, and for the second consecutive year “Stipro Skrējiens” returned to its original home at Cinevilla, where impressive film sets, pavilions and historic filming locations gave the competition a unique atmosphere, making it much more than just a sporting event.

This year, participants once again faced a dynamic obstacle course featuring a series of technical challenges that required physical fitness, agility and a strong team spirit. Particular interest was aroused by a brand-new obstacle – the “Optibet Stipro kalns” – which became one of the most difficult yet exciting challenges on the course. Activities for families and colleagues also attracted large numbers of participants, turning the event into a shared adventure for people of different backgrounds and fitness levels.

Participants competed in four races: the widely popular 5 km race, the 10 km Garmin Elite race, the ALWARK Friends race and the Children’s race for the youngest participants. Alongside these, the Radio SWH Family Run and the TVNET+ Corporate Championship also took place, fostering healthy competition among various groups. Andis Sakne was the fastest to complete the 10 km race this year, while Edijs Eiduks emerged as the leader in the 5 km competition. Among the women, Kristīne Vāvere proved strongest in the 10 km race, while Ilona Aigare confidently won the top prize in the 5 km race.

“Although I started more slowly, the race was very good – perfect weather, lots of active people, and finally we can say that the season has officially begun. I gave all my energy on the course, and I believe that competitions are always the best training,” said Andis Sakne, a long-time obstacle racer and running coach, after reaching the finish line.

As musician Miks Dukurs, who had already taken part in “Stipro Skrējiens” several years ago, admitted as he crossed the finish line: “I didn’t believe I would manage it again, but in the end I didn’t skip a single obstacle, and today I feel like a winner. It was a real test of myself, and I recommend that everyone experience it.”

More information about the event, the full competition photo gallery and race results are available on the website https://stiproskrejiens.lv/.