Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Marine Corps Marathon - Great Race for All Runners



Thanks to Susie for this review of the Marine Corps marathon. She didn't run the 2008 race so if anyone did or if anyone has any other thoughts on the Marine Corps marathon please let us know!



The Marine Corps marathon takes place in the fall and the course runs you through historic areas of Washington DC and northern Virginia. This year's race will take place on October 25, 2009. The course itself is relatively flat with only a few inclines at the beginning and the end (see the course map). The best part about this marathon is the huge amount of spectators that cheer you on throughout the race. It's a popular run in the area and there's a lot of support. The toughest part of the course comes on the bridge at mile 20 when there are no spectators - after so much support and at that point in the run, it's tough to get over that bridge. There's also a switchback that's kind of frustrating but again, overall the course is fast and very well supported with both spectators and water stops.

The race ends at the Iwo Jima memorial with a greeting from members of the marine corps, which is inspiring and memorable. The race is very well organized and though there are many runners you don't feel overcrowded. There's a well-run expo on race weekend and the post-race had tons of food and drink and a great atmosphere.

October in DC is generally perfect running weather - you may need to layer up though for the beginning of the race so keep that in mind. Here is the website for more info on registering and other race details. Let us know if you decide to run it!

1 comments:

Donna said...

Great Race! Great and inspiring location. They shut down the streets around the monuments and the mall so it's like one big party.

If you'd like to run the marathon or the 10k go to:
www.witnessjustice.org and click on Team Heal Trauma. We have a charity team with bib numbers left!

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