How Many Runners in the Marine Corps Marathon?
The Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) is one of the most prestigious and challenging road races in the world, attracting thousands of runners from all over the globe. But how many runners participate in this iconic event each year?
Direct Answer:
The Marine Corps Marathon typically attracts around 30,000 to 40,000 runners annually. This number has been steadily increasing over the years, with a record-high of 43,203 finishers in 2019.
History of the Marine Corps Marathon
The Marine Corps Marathon was first held in 1976, with only 1,200 runners participating. The event was created to promote physical fitness and to raise money for the Marine Corps Historical Society. Over the years, the marathon has grown in popularity, with the number of participants increasing by 400% since 2000.
Registration Process
The Marine Corps Marathon is a highly competitive event, with a strict registration process in place. Runners must register online through the official website, and the registration period typically opens in January. Lottery registration is used to ensure fairness and to prevent overcrowding, with a limited number of spots available for each registration period.
Breakdown of Runners by Category
Here is a breakdown of the number of runners participating in the Marine Corps Marathon by category:
| Category | Number of Runners |
|---|---|
| Open Runners | 20,000 – 25,000 |
| Military Runners | 2,000 – 3,000 |
| Handcycle and Wheelchair Runners | 500 – 1,000 |
| Team Runners | 1,000 – 2,000 |
| International Runners | 2,000 – 3,000 |
Demographics of Runners
The Marine Corps Marathon attracts runners from all over the world, with a diverse range of ages, genders, and nationalities. Here are some key demographics:
- Age: The average age of runners is 35-44, with the youngest runner being 18 and the oldest being 80.
- Gender: 55% of runners are male, while 45% are female.
- Nationality: Runners come from over 50 countries, with the top 5 countries being the United States, Japan, South Korea, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Why Run the Marine Corps Marathon?
So why do thousands of runners participate in the Marine Corps Marathon each year? Here are some reasons:
- Challenge: The Marine Corps Marathon is known for its challenging course, with 5,000 feet of elevation gain and 26.2 miles of running.
- History and Tradition: The marathon has a rich history and tradition, dating back to 1976.
- Support: The event is well-supported, with 10,000 volunteers and 30 aid stations along the course.
- Swag: Runners receive a range of swag, including a finisher’s medal, t-shirt, and hat.
Conclusion
The Marine Corps Marathon is one of the most iconic and challenging road races in the world, attracting thousands of runners each year. With its rich history, challenging course, and excellent support, it’s no wonder that the event continues to grow in popularity. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a first-timer, the Marine Corps Marathon is an event that should be on your bucket list.
