Marathon and Half-Marathon Race Calendar 2023 and 2024

Welcome to the ultimate race calendar for marathon and half-marathon enthusiasts! Whether you’re a seasoned runner looking to conquer new terrains or a beginner eager to mark your first finish line, this comprehensive guide is tailored for you. Covering the most anticipated races for 2023 and 2024, our calendar provides details on race dates, locations, and registration links (soon to be implemented). Here is your Marathon and Half-Marathon Race Calendar for 2023 and 2024.

Dive in to plan your next challenge, set new personal records, and experience the exhilarating world of long-distance running. Lace up your shoes, set your goals, and let’s hit the road together!

Marathon and Half-Marathon Race Calendar 2023 and 2024

Marathon and Half-Marathon Race Calendar 2023 and 2024

In this marathon and half-marathon race calendar, you’ll find all the official marathons, half-marathons, and ultra-marathons around the world that are recognised by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS).

Note: The distances are abbreviated as M for Marathon, H for Half Marathon, R for Relay or Race, and U for Ultra. The ”tbc” in the Date of Race column stands for ”to be confirmed”.

Marathons and Half-Marathons October 2023

Date of RaceName of the RaceCountryDistance
1Almaty MarathonKAZM,H,R
1Brussels Airport Marathon & Half MarathonBELM,H
1XXII Gatorade CCCROCKVENR
1Generali Cologne Marathon Generali Köln MarathonGERM,H
1Košice Peace Marathon Medzinárodný maratón mieru, KošiceSVKM
1Kuching MarathonMASM,H,R
1Baxters Loch Ness Marathon & Festival of RunningGBRM
1Queretaro MaratonMEXM
1Saquib Rizvi Memorial Cancer Awareness Half MarathonINDH,R
1Silesia MarathonPOLM,H,R
1Wizz Air Skopje Marathon Wizz Air Скопски маратонMKDM,H,R
1HeidelbergCement TbilisiHalfMarathonGEOH,R
1Trento Half MarathonITAH
7–8ASML Marathon EindhovenNEDM,H,R
7Tartu City MarathonESTM,H,R
83 Country Sparkasse Marathon Sparkasse 3-Länder-MarathonAUTM,H
8Banja Luka MarathonBIHM
8Wipro Bengaluru MarathonINDM,H,R
8Scenic Marathon ChanthaburiTHAM,H,R
8Bank of America Chicago MarathonUSAM
810th Cracovia Royal Half MarathonPOLH
8Sarmang Dehradun MarathonINDM,H,R
8EDP Lisbon MarathonPORLuso Meia Maratona
8Generali München MarathonGERM,H,R
8Novi Sad MarathonSRBM
8Wizz Air Sofia MarathonBULM,H,R
8Tlajomulco Half Marathon Skarch Hydrated by Electrolit Medio Maraton Tlajomulco hidratado por ElectrolitMEXH
8Royal Victoria MarathonCANM
8Zagreb Marathon & Half Zagrebački maraton i polumaratonCROM,H
13Amman International MarathonJORM,H,R
14–1538th SPAR Budapest MarathonHUNM
14Kathmandu MarathonNEPM,H,R
15TCS Amsterdam MarathonNEDM
15Raiffeisen Bank Bucharest MarathonROUM,H
15Vedanta Delhi Half MarathonINDH
15Hanoi Marathon – Heritage Race Giải Marathon Quốc tế Di sản Hà NộiVIEM,H,R
15Nike Melbourne Marathon FestivalAUSM
15Palma Marathon MallorcaESPM,H,R
15TCS Toronto Waterfront MarathonCANM,H,R
15Yerevan Marathon and Half MarathonARMM,H,R
20Semi Marathon International de la Ville de BéjaiaALGH
20Great Victory Run Egypt’s Best 10kmEGYR
21Gyeongju MarathonKORM
21International Thessaloniki Night Half Marathon, 10K & 5KGREH,R
22Antwerp MarathonBELM
22Media Maratona de BucaramangaCOLH
22Dalian International MarathonCHNM
22Eva Air MarathonTPEM,H,R
22Maratón Internacional de JuárezMEXM,H
22Volkswagen Ljubljana Marathon Volkswagen Ljubljanski MaratonSLOM
2222nd Poznań Marathon Poznań MaratonPOLM
22Half Marathon Valencia Trinidad Alfonso ZurichESPH
22Maraton VarmexMEXM,H,R
22VenicemarathonITAM
22Yellow River Estuary (Dongying) MarathonCHNM
27RESCHEDULED Sailor – RunBangla International 10KBANR
27Dhiraagu Maldives Road RaceMDVR
27–29Marine Corps MarathonUSAM
29Barfoot & Thompson Auckland MarathonNZLM,H,R
29Chengdu MarathonCHNM,H,R
29Chuncheon International MarathonKORM
29Irish Life Dublin MarathonIRLM
29Mainova Frankfurt MarathonGERM
29Kanazawa MarathonJPNM
29Nova Poshta Kyiv MarathonUKRH,R
29Lausanne MarathonSUIM
29Longbien MarathonVIEM,H,R

Marathons and Half-Marathons November 2023

Date of RaceName of the RaceCountryDistance
3Sylhet 25KBANR
43-Sjøersløpet (The 3 Lakes Race)NORH
5Bangsaen42 Chonburi MarathonTHAM
5Maratón Internacional Comude Guadalajara hidratado por ElectrolitMEXM
5Hangzhou MarathonCHNM
5NKolay İstanbul MarathonTURM
5Lago Maggiore Marathon – 33 KM – Half Marathon – 10 KMITAM,H,R
5TCS New York City MarathonUSAM
5French Riviera Marathon Nice-Cannes Marathon des Alpes-Maritimes Nice-CannesFRAM
5Porto Marathon EDP Maratona do Porto EDPPORM
5JTBC Seoul MarathonKORM
5Torino City MarathonITAM,H,R
5RESCHEDULED UNICEF Charity Run 10kmHKGR
6Semi Marathon International de LaayouneMARH
11–12Monterey Bay Half MarathonUSAH
12Athens Marathon. The AuthenticGREM
12OMT Beirut MarathonLIBM,H
12Garda Trentino Half MarathonITAH,R
12Korat Marathon presented by The MallTHAM,H,R
12Craft Ravenna Marathon City of Art Maratona di Ravenna Città d’ArteITAM,H
12Standard Chartered Taipei Charity MarathonTPEM,H,R
12Taiwan’s Rice Heaven Tianzhong MarathonTPEM
16Volcano MarathonCHIM,H
19Bangkok MarathonTHAM,H,R
19Borobudur MarathonINAM,H,R
19Great Ethiopian Run 10kmETHR
19Gran Canaria Maspalomas MarathonESPM,R
19Kobe MarathonJPNM
19Radisson Blu Larnaka International MarathonCYPM,H,R
19Marabana Marathon & Half & 10kmCUBM,H,R
19UWI SAAS International Half MarathonTRIH
19Verona Run MarathonITAM,H,R
19Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge Half MarathonHKGH
24Eilat Desert MarathonISRM,H,R
25Gulf Bank 642 MarathonKUWM,H,R
25Bagan Temple MarathonMYAM,H,R
25–26VnExpress Marathon Hanoi MidnightVIEM,H,R
25Al-Khobar International Half MarathonKSAH
25Nepalgunj MarathonNEPM,H,R
25Ring Running SeriesGERM,H
26Adani Ahmedabad MarathonINDM,H,R
26KLM Curaçao Marathon (& 21.1K, 10K, 5K)CURM,H,R
26JBG Kolkata World 10KINDR
26Firenze MarathonITAM
26Kaohsiung Fubon MarathonTPEM
26Milano21 Half Marathon Follow Your PassionITAH,R
26Mt. Fuji International MarathonJPNM
26Panama International Marathon Maratón Internacional de PanamáPANM
26Maratón Monumental Primer Santiago de AméricaDOMM,H,R
26Serge Vigot La Rochelle International Marathon Marathon de La Rochelle Serge VigotFRAM,H
26Shanghai International MarathonCHNM
tbcLviv Nova Poshta MarathonUKRH,R
tbcPatna Half MarathonINDM,H,R

Marathons and Half-Marathons December 2023

Date of RaceName of the RaceCountryDistance
1Ayla Red Sea Half MarathonJORH,R
1–3Standard Chartered Singapore MarathonSINM,H,R
2–3Amazing Thailand Marathon BangkokTHAM,H,R
3Angkor Wat International Half MarathonCAMH,R
3Walkers Cayman Islands MarathonCAYM
3Discoveries Half Marathon (Meia-Maratona dos Descobrimentos)PORH
3Fukuoka International MarathonJPNM
353rd Hofu Yomiuri MarathonJPNM
3Galaxy Entertainment Macao International MarathonMACM,H
3Pune International MarathonINDM
3Reggae Marathon, Half Marathon & 10KJAMH,R
3Marathon COMAR Tunis – CarthageTUNM,H,R
3Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Marathon (Maratón Valencia Trinidad Alfonso)ESPM
4Figuig International 10KMARR
8–10Run Barbados Marathon WeekendBARM,H,R
9Marakez Pyramids Half MarathonEGYH,R
10SKF Goa River MarathonINDM,H,R
10Guangzhou MarathonCHNM
10Techcombank Ho Chi Minh City International MarathonVIEM,H,R
10Maratón Powerade MonterreyMEXM
10Nara MarathonJPNM
10Quantum Nicosia MarathonCYPM,H
10Zengwen Reservoir MarathonTPEM,H,R
13Antarctic Ice Marathon & 100kATAU,M
16ADNOC Abu Dhabi MarathonUAEM,R
16Bengaluru Midnight MarathonINDM,H,R
17Bangsaen21 Half MarathonTHAH,R
17JBG Durgapur 10KINDR
17Tata Steel Kolkata 25kINDR
17Penang Bridge International MarathonMASM,H
17Vedanta Pink City Half MarathonINDH,R
17Cetilar Maratona di PisaITAM,H
17The St. Croix International MarathonISVM,H,R
17Taipei MarathonTPEM,H,R
22Great Freedom Run Egypt’s Fastest Half MarathonEGYH
24Photak MarathonTHAM
30Lidl São Silvestre de LisboaPORR
31São Silvestre de Luanda 10kmANGR

Marathons and Half-Marathons January 2024

Date of RaceName of the RaceCountryDistance
1Neujahrsmarathon ZürichSUIM, H, R
5Sea of Galilee Tiberias MarathonISRM
6PolarNight MarathonNORH, R
7Merida MarathonMEXM, H, R
7Siberian Ice Half Marathon (Рождественский полумарафон)RUSH, R*
7MG Vadodara International MarathonINDM, H
10Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Dhaka MarathonBANM, H, R
1230th Egyptian MarathonEGYM, H
13–14Chevron Houston Marathon, Aramco Houston Half Marathon and We Are Houston 5KUSAM, H, R
14Marathon Bahamas, Half & RelayBAHM, H
14Khon Kaen International MarathonTHAM
14Maui Oceanfront Marathon, Double, Half, 15K, 10K, 5KUSAM, H, R
1410K Valencia IbercajaESPR
21Chombeung MarathonTHAM, H, R
21Funchal Marathon (Maratona do Funchal)PORM, H
21Standard Chartered Hong Kong MarathonHKGM
21Tata Mumbai MarathonINDM
21Mitja Marató Internacional Vila de Santa PolaESPH
27Buriram MarathonTHAM, H, R
28Marathon & Semi-marathon International de MarrakechMARM, H
28Osaka Half MarathonJPNH
28Osaka Women’s MarathonJPNM
tbcInorbit Durgam Cheruvu RunINDH, R
*Course not measurable to AIMS standards

Marathons and Half-Marathons February 2024

Date of RaceName of the RaceCountryDistance
3–4Montepio Meia Maratona de CascaisPORH
4Beppu-Oita Mainichi MarathonJPNM
4China Coast Marathon and Half MarathonHKGM, H
4AU Jaipur MarathonINDM, H, R
4Kagawa Marugame International Half MarathonJPNH
4Ageas Federal Life Insurance Kolkata Full MarathonINDM, H, R
4JUST ANNOUNCED Thai Sikh RunTHAH, R
11eDreams Mitja Marató de BarcelonaESPH
11Ehime MarathonJPNM
11Romeo&Giulietta Run Half MarathonITAH
17Pokhara International MarathonNEPM, H, R
18Kitakyushu MarathonJPNM
18Kochi Ryoma MarathonJPNM
18Kyoto Marathon 京都マラソンJPNM
18Ohme-Hochi 30km Road Race & 10kmJPNR
18Zurich Maratón de SevillaESPM
18Maratona di San ValentinoITAM, H
24Split Marathon Split MaratonCROM, H, R
25Kilimanjaro Marathon, Half Marathon & Fun RunTANM, H
25Napoli City Half MarathonITAH
25Apollo Tyres New Delhi MarathonINDM, H
25Osaka MarathonJPNM
25Standard Chartered Taipei Charity MarathonTPEM, H, R
28Sahara Marathon (Course not measurable to AIMS standards)ALGM
tbcChattogram 25K RunBANR
tbcMaratón Internacional Comude Guadalajara hidratado por ElectrolitMEXM
tbc21K Guadalajara Electrolit nutrido por GranvitaMEXH
tbcGyeonggi International Half MarathonKORH
tbcVnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh City MidnightVIEM, H, R
tbcIndore MarathonINDM, H, R
tbcKinmen MarathonTPEM, H, R
tbcThe Ras al Khaimah Half MarathonUAEH
tbcKIX Senshu International MarathonJPNM

Marathons and Half-Marathons March 2024

Date of RaceName of the RaceCountryDistance (M, H, R, U)
2–3Humana Rock ’n’ Roll Las Vegas Half MarathonUSAH
3Logicom Cyprus MarathonCYPM,H,R
3Miri MarathonMASM,H,R
3Tainan Half MarathonTPEH,R
3Tokyo MarathonJPNM
8Jerusalem Marathon, Half & 10kISRM,H,R
9Saipan MarathonMNPM,H,R
10Zurich Marató de BarcelonaESPM
10EDP Lisbon Half Marathon (EDP Meia Maratona de Lisboa)PORH
10Nagoya Women’s MarathonJPNM
10Taipei Freeway MarathonTPEM,H,R
11Antarctica Marathon®, Half-Marathon and Ultra-MarathonATAM,H,U
17CAF Caracas MaratónVENM
17Seoul MarathonKORM
17New Taipei City Wan Jin Shi MarathonTPEM,R
172wish Great Welsh Marathon EventsGBRM,H
17Wuxi MarathonCHNM,H,R
21Antarctica Marathon®, Half-Marathon and Ultra-MarathonATAM,H,U
24Incheon International Half MarathonKORH
24La Valette Malta MarathonMLTM,H
24International Marathon VaraderoCUBM,H,R
2418th Warsaw Half Marathon (Półmaraton Warszawski)POLH
tbcRunatolia Marathon (Half + 10km)TURM,H,R
tbcAthens Half MarathonGREH,R
tbcChongqing International MarathonCHNM,H,R
tbcMaratón Internacional LalaMEXM
tbcG.S.O. Limassol International MarathonCYPM,H,R
tbcMacao International 10KMACR
tbcStandard Chartered Stanley MarathonFLKM
tbcTokushima MarathonJPNM

Marathons and Half-Marathons April 2024

Date of RaceName of the RaceCountryDistance
6Prague Half MarathonCZEH
7Generali Berlin Half MarathonGERH
7ČSOB Bratislava MarathonSVKM,H,R
7Canberra Times Marathon FestivalAUSM,H,R,U
7Daegu MarathonKORM
7Movistar Madrid Medio MaratónESPH
7Milano MarathonITAM
7Sihanoukville International Half MarathonCAMH,R
12Great Egyptian River Nile International MarathonEGYM,H,R
13–14OPAP Limassol MarathonCYPM,H,R
13North Pole MarathonNPOM
13Pardubice Wine Half MarathonCZEH
13–14NN Marathon RotterdamNEDM
13–14Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonRSAU
14Maraton CartagoCRCM
14Wizz Air Cluj-Napoca MarathonROUM,H,R
14Crete MarathonGREM,R
14JBG Gorkha 10KINDR
14ADAC Marathon HannoverGERM,H,R
1416th PKO Poznań Half MarathonPOLH
14Taishin Women Run TaipeiTPEH,R
15B.A.A. Boston MarathonUSAM
20–2139th Telekom Vivicittá Spring Half MarathonHUNH,R
21International Marathon Alexander the GreatGREM,R
21Poseidon Athens Half MarathonGREH
21Wizz Air Bucharest International Half Marathon by Constantina DitaROUH,R
21Cracovia MarathonPOLM
21Enschede MarathonNEDM
21Lisbon Eco MarathonPORM,H,R
21Nagano MarathonJPNM
21Maratón Puerto VallartaMEXM
21Rhodes MarathonGREM,R
21Vienna City MarathonAUTM,H,R
21Ochsner Sport Zürich MarathonSUIM
27Fjordkraft Bergen City MarathonNORM,H,R
2837th Belgrade MarathonSRBM
28Big Sur International MarathonUSAM,H
28Du Motion-Runners’ Days Dubrovnik (Dubrovnik Half Marathon)CROH,R
28Teamsport Gozo Half MarathonMLTH,R
28Haspa Marathon HamburgGERM
28NKolay İstanbul Half MarathonTURH
28Kaunas MarathonLTUM,H,R
28Zurich Rock ’n’ Roll Running Series MadridESPM,H
28Maratón Internacional de MendozaARGM,H,R
tbcAlmaty Half MarathonKAZH,R
tbcMaratón “Las Batallas de Celaya”MEXM,H,R
tbcGifu Half MarathonJPNH
tbcVnExpress Marathon Imperial HueVIEM,H,R
tbcPadova MarathonITAH,R
tbcMeia Maratona Internacional Da PazANGH
tbcXiamen MarathonCHNM

Marathons and Half-Marathons May 2024

Date of RaceName of the RaceCountryDistance
4–5Generali Genève MarathonSUIM, H, R
5Mash Direct Belfast City MarathonGBRM
5Copenhagen MarathonDENM
5–6Milton Keynes Marathon & Half MarathonGBRM, H, R
5Prague International MarathonCZEM
5Gatorade Maratón de SantiagoCHIM
5Toronto MarathonCANH, R
11–12OMV Petrom Bucharest Half MarathonROUH, R
11Helsinki City Running DayFINM, H, R
12Axios Running FestivalGRER
12Leiden MarathonNEDM, H, R
12Salzburg MarathonAUTM, H, R
18The Great Wall MarathonCHNM*
18–19Rimi Riga Marathon (Rimi Rīgas maratons)LATM, H
19Stop And Run Marathon Bình ThuậnVIEM, H, R
25Moonlight Half MarathonITAH
25–26Tamarack Ottawa Race WeekendCANM, R
26ASICS Austrian Women’s Run (Österreichischer Frauenlauf)AUTR
26Barossa Marathon FestivalAUSM, H, R
26Scenic Half Marathon ChanthaburiTHAH, R
26WVV Marathon WuerzburgGERM
30–2Rio de Janeiro City Marathon (Maratona da Cidade do Rio de Janeiro)BRAM
tbcTata Consultancy Services World 10K BengaluruINDR
tbcBorneo MarathonMASM, H, R
tbcDead Sea Ultra MarathonJORU, H, R
tbcKazan Marathon (Казанский марафон)RUSM, H, R
tbcLago Maggiore Half MarathonITAH, R
tbcLima 42k MarathonPERM, H, R
tbcMaratón de MontevideoURUM, H
tbcMoscow Half MarathonRUSH, R
tbcOdesa Nova Poshta Half MarathonUKRH, R
tbcPushkin MarathonRUSM, H, R
tbcThree Hearts Marathon (Maraton Treh Src)SLOM, H, R
*Course not measurable to AIMS standards

Marathons and Half-Marathons June 2024

Date of RaceName of the RaceCountryDistance
1Spitsbergen MarathonNORM, H, R
1adidas Stockholm MarathonSWEM
2KLM Aruba Marathon (& 21.1K, 10K, 5K)ARUM, H, R
2Cork City Marathon, Half Marathon & 10k RaceIRLM, H, R
8Helsinki Half MarathonFINH, R
9Swansea University Swansea Half MarathonGBRH
9Atlantic Airways Tórshavn MarathonFROM, H, R
16Phnom Penh International Half MarathonCAMH, R
20Suzuki Midnight Sun Run (Miðnæturhlaup Suzuki)ISLH, R
22Midnight Sun MarathonNORM, H
23JUST ANNOUNCED Waterford Viking MarathonIRLM, H, R
29–30Swiss IrontrailSUIU*
29White Nights Marathon (международный марафон ”Белые Ночи”)RUSM
30hella hamburg half marathon (hella hamburg halbmarathon)GERH
tbcAstana Half MarathonKAZH, R
tbcBelau Omal MarathonTPEM, H, R
tbcKigali International Peace MarathonRWAM, H
tbcSupersports Laguna Phuket MarathonTHAM
tbcLanzhou MarathonCHNM, H, R
tbcOlympic Day RunGRER
tbcQuito Últimas Noticias 15kECUR
tbcBrooks Rottnest Running FestivalAUSM, H, R
tbcLake Saroma 100km Ultra MarathonJPNU
tbcBMW Tangamanga International Marathon (BMW Maratón Internacional Tangamanga)MEXM
tbcPKO Wroclaw Night Half Marathon (PKO Nocny Wrocław Półmaraton)POLH
tbcVnExpress Marathon Sparkling Quy NhonVIEM, H, R
*Course not measurable to AIMS standards

Marathons and Half-Marathons July 2024

Date of RaceName of the RaceCountryDistance
6–7Gold Coast MarathonAUSM
7UPDATED Victoria Falls MarathonZIMM
21Airlie Beach Marathon FestivalAUSM, H, R
28media maratón de BogotáCOLH
28Rotary Rain Run GoaINDH, R
tbcDiacore Gaborone MarathonBOTM, H, R
tbcGornergrat Zermatt MarathonSUIU, M, H

Marathons and Half-Marathons August 2024

Date of RaceName of the RaceCountryDistance
4The Khmer Empire MarathonCAMM, H, R
16–17Paavo Nurmi Marathon, Half and 10kFINM, H, R
31Stavanger MarathonNORM, H, R
tbcAdelaide Marathon FestivalAUSM, H, R
tbcMaratón Internacional de AsunciónPARM, H, R
tbcMaybank Bali MarathonINAM, H, R
tbcCRDB Bank MarathonTANM, H, R
tbcManulife Danang International MarathonVIEM, H, R
tbcHelsinki MarathonFINM, R
tbcHokkaido MarathonJPNM
tbcNMDC Hyderabad MarathonINDM, H, R
tbcLima Half Marathon & 10kPERH, R
tbcLola Challenge WeekendPURH, R
tbcAbbott Longford MarathonIRLM
tbcMaratón de la Ciudad de México TelcelMEXM
tbcAgeas Federal Life Insurance Mumbai Half MarathonINDH, R
tbcSPB Half Marathon. The Northern CapitalRUSH, R
tbcIslandsbanki Reykjavik Marathon Reykjavíkurmaraþon ÍslandsbankaISLM, H
tbcSiberian International Marathon Сибирский международный марафонRUSM, R
tbcSongkhla MarathonTHAM, H, R
tbcVnExpress Marathon Marvelous Nha TrangVIEM, H, R

The Marathon Majors

The Marathon Majors, also known as the Abbott World Marathon Majors (AWMM), represent a series of six of the largest and most renowned marathons in the world. These races are held in some of the world’s most iconic cities and attract elite athletes, as well as tens of thousands of runners from all over the globe.

Achieving a ”Six Star Finisher” status is a coveted accomplishment in the running community. It’s awarded to runners who have completed all six of these major marathons.

The AWMM also plays a role in determining the best male and female marathon runners in the world through a series of points based on race results from these marathons, as well as a few other select races.

Here’s a brief overview of each of the six Marathon Majors:

1. Boston Marathon

The Boston Marathon is the world’s oldest annual marathon. It’s held on Patriots’ Day, the third Monday of April. Due to its challenging course, including the infamous ”Heartbreak Hill,” it’s a sought-after race for many marathoners.

  • Location: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
  • Inauguration: 1897

2. London Marathon

The London Marathon is known for its flat and fast course, making it favorable for setting personal bests. The race passes through many of London’s iconic landmarks.

  • Location: London, England
  • Inauguration: 1981

3. Berlin Marathon

The Berlin Marathon is famous for its flat course, and many world records have been set here. The race finishes near the Brandenburg Gate, an iconic symbol of Berlin.

  • Location: Berlin, Germany
  • Inauguration: 1974

4. Chicago Marathon

The Chicago Marathon is known for its flat and fast course, which winds through 29 diverse neighborhoods of the city. It’s one of the US’s largest marathons in terms of participants.

  • Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA
  • Inauguration: 1977

5. New York City Marathon

The NYC Marathon is the largest marathon in the world in terms of participants. Runners traverse through all five boroughs of New York City, starting in Staten Island and finishing in Central Park.

  • Location: New York City, New York, USA
  • Inauguration: 1970

6. Tokyo Marathon

The Tokyo Marathon is the newest addition to the Marathon Majors. The race offers a unique blend of modern and traditional, as runners pass contemporary skyscrapers and historic temples.

  • Location: Tokyo, Japan
  • Inauguration: 2007

Marathon Traveling: A Comprehensive Guide

Traveling for a marathon is an exhilarating experience that combines the thrill of exploring a new destination with the challenge of participating in a long-distance race. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a first-timer, preparing adequately for both the race and the travel is crucial.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get ready:

Traveling for a marathon is a blend of adventure and athleticism. To ensure you’re fully prepared for both the journey and the race, let’s delve deeper into each aspect of marathon traveling:

1. Pre-Marathon Preparation:

a. Training:

  • Increasing Mileage: Begin with shorter runs and gradually increase your distance. This helps your body adapt and reduces the risk of injury.
  • Cross-training: Activities like swimming, cycling, and yoga can enhance your stamina and flexibility, making you a more resilient runner.
  • Simulated Conditions: If the marathon location is hilly, find similar terrains to train on. If it’s humid, try to train during the warmest parts of the day.

b. Research:

  • Course Familiarization: Many marathons offer virtual tours or detailed maps of the course. This can help you anticipate challenges.
  • Weather: Knowing the forecast allows you to train in similar conditions and pack appropriate gear.
  • Local Support: Join online groups or forums related to the marathon. Engaging with local runners can provide invaluable insights.

c. Health and Nutrition:

  • Hydration: Drink water consistently throughout your training. Dehydration can severely impact your performance and health.
  • Balanced Diet: Focus on a mix of proteins, complex carbs, and healthy fats. This fuels long runs and aids recovery.
  • Medical Check-up: This ensures you’re aware of any potential health issues before the race.

2. Packing for Marathon Travel:

a. Essential Gear:

  • Running Shoes: Your feet swell during long runs. Ensure your shoes are comfortable and have been broken in during training.
  • Attire: Layering can be beneficial. You can shed layers if you get too warm during the race.
  • Tech Gear: Ensure your GPS watch and heart rate monitor are fully charged and have backup charging options.
  • Hydration Solutions: Familiarize yourself with the race’s hydration stations. If they’re sparse, you’ll need to carry more of your own water.

b. Personal Items:

  • Documentation: Keep digital and physical copies of IDs, race confirmations, and travel insurance.
  • Medications: Include any personal medications and consider adding pain relievers for post-race recovery.
  • Race Nutrition: Familiar energy gels or bars can be a lifesaver if the race doesn’t provide what you’re used to.

c. Recovery Tools:

  • Compression Gear: These can aid in circulation and reduce muscle soreness.
  • Massage Tools: Portable massagers can help relax muscle knots and improve recovery.
  • Rehydration: Post-race, your body will need electrolytes. Carry tablets or powders to mix into your water.

d. Miscellaneous:

  • Skin Protection: Even on cloudy days, UV rays can be harmful. Always apply sunscreen.
  • Post-race Comfort: Pack sandals or flip-flops to give your feet a break after the marathon.
  • Rest Tools: Earplugs and eye masks can ensure you get quality sleep in unfamiliar accommodations.

3. Travel Tips:

a. Arrival:

  • Acclimatization: Give your body time to adjust, especially if there’s a significant time zone difference.
  • Expo Visits: These events often have guest speakers, workshops, and the latest in running gear.

b. Nutrition:

  • Familiar Foods: Stick to what you know to avoid digestive issues. If you want to try local foods, do so after the race.
  • Hydration: Different climates can affect your hydration needs. Drink more water if you’re in a warmer or drier location.

c. Rest and Relaxation:

  • Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep, especially the night before the race.
  • Sightseeing: Opt for relaxing activities. Consider a city tour bus rather than walking all day.

d. Post-Marathon:

  • Celebrate: You’ve earned it! Enjoy a nice meal, relax, and maybe even pamper yourself with a spa day.
  • Extended Stay: This allows your muscles to recover before undertaking a long journey home.

Remember, the key to a successful marathon travel experience is preparation. By addressing each detail with care, you’ll set yourself up for a memorable race and trip. Safe travels and may you achieve a new personal best!

FAQs About Marathon and Marathon Traveling

What is a marathon?

A marathon is a long-distance running race with an official distance of 42.195 kilometers (26.219 miles). It is typically a road race, and its name is derived from the historical run of the soldier Pheidippides, a messenger from the Battle of Marathon to Athens.

How should I prepare for a marathon?

Preparing for a marathon requires a combination of consistent training, proper nutrition, and adequate rest. Most marathon training plans range from 12 to 20 weeks. It’s essential to gradually increase your mileage, incorporate rest days, and do cross-training exercises to prevent injuries.

What should I eat before a marathon?

It’s recommended to eat a high-carbohydrate, low-fiber meal 3-4 hours before the race. Avoid fatty or spicy foods. Good options include pasta, rice, bread, and lean protein. Stay hydrated and consider consuming a sports drink to maintain electrolyte balance.

What is marathon traveling?

Marathon traveling refers to the act of traveling to different locations, often internationally, to participate in marathon races. Many runners enjoy combining their love for running with their passion for travel, exploring new destinations while participating in races.

How do I choose a destination marathon?

When choosing a destination marathon, consider factors like the race’s reputation, the course’s difficulty, the climate, cultural experiences, and any travel restrictions or requirements. Many runners also look for marathons that offer unique experiences, such as scenic views or historical significance.

What should I pack when traveling for a marathon?

Pack your essential running gear, including shoes, clothing, and any accessories like GPS watches or hydration belts. Don’t forget race essentials like bibs and safety pins. It’s also wise to pack for various weather conditions and bring any personal nutrition or hydration products you prefer.

How do I deal with jet lag when traveling for a marathon?

If possible, try to arrive at your marathon destination a few days in advance to acclimate to the time zone. Stay hydrated, get plenty of sleep, and consider short, easy runs to shake off the travel fatigue. Avoid caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime.

Are there travel agencies that specialize in marathon traveling?

Yes, several travel agencies specialize in marathon travel. These agencies often offer packages that include race entry, accommodation, and sometimes even training plans or guided tours of the race location.

How do I stay safe when traveling for a marathon?

Research the destination in advance, stay in well-lit areas, and avoid running alone in unfamiliar places. Keep a copy of your passport and important documents in a safe place, and always inform someone of your whereabouts.

Can I travel with my family or friends?

Absolutely! Many marathon travelers bring along family or friends, whether they’re participating in the race or just there for support. Many destination marathons also have shorter races or fun runs that family members can join.