When is the Marine Corp Marathon?
The Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) is one of the most prestigious and highly respected marathons in the world, attracting runners from all over the globe. Held annually in Arlington, Virginia, just outside of Washington D.C., the MCM is a premier running event that takes place every year on the last Sunday of October.
Date and Schedule
The Marine Corps Marathon is typically held on the last Sunday of October every year. The event schedule is as follows:
- Expo: The MCM Expo usually takes place from Thursday to Saturday of the same week as the marathon. It’s a great opportunity for runners to pick up their race packets, check out the latest running gear, and attend seminars and workshops.
- Marathon: The Marine Corps Marathon starts at 8:00 AM on the last Sunday of October. Runners can expect a well-organized and well-marked course that takes them through the scenic streets of Arlington and Washington D.C.
- Post-Race: After the marathon, runners can enjoy the post-race festivities, which include food, drinks, and entertainment.
History and Significance
The Marine Corps Marathon was first held in 1976, and it has since become one of the largest and most popular marathons in the United States. The event is organized by the Marine Corps and is considered a major fundraiser for the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, which supports the preservation of Marine Corps history and heritage.
Qualifying Times and Entry Requirements
To qualify for the Marine Corps Marathon, runners must meet specific time standards. The qualifying times are as follows:
- Men: Sub-3:05 (Boston Qualifier)
- Women: Sub-3:30 (Boston Qualifier)
Runners can register for the MCM through a lottery system or by applying for a guaranteed entry as a member of the Marine Corps, a veteran, or a family member of a Marine Corps service member.
Course and Elevation
The Marine Corps Marathon course is a fast and flat course that takes runners through the scenic streets of Arlington and Washington D.C. The course is approximately 26.2 miles long and features minimal elevation gain.
Here’s a breakdown of the course elevation:
| Mile | Elevation Gain |
|---|---|
| 0-5 | 100 feet |
| 5-10 | 200 feet |
| 10-15 | 300 feet |
| 15-20 | 400 feet |
| 20-25 | 500 feet |
| 25-26.2 | 600 feet |
Charity Partners and Fundraising
The Marine Corps Marathon is a major fundraiser for the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, and runners can choose to support one of the many charity partners. Some of the charity partners include:
- USO: Supporting troops and their families
- Wounded Warrior Project: Supporting wounded veterans
- Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation: Supporting the education of Marine Corps families
Runners can raise funds for their chosen charity by creating a fundraising page and sharing it with friends and family.
Tips and Advice
If you’re planning to run the Marine Corps Marathon, here are some tips and advice to help you prepare:
- Train: Make sure to train properly and get in at least 16-20 weeks of training before the marathon.
- Hydrate: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and electrolyte-rich drinks during your training and on race day.
- Dress: Dress in layers and wear comfortable, breathable clothing and shoes.
- Plan: Plan your travel and accommodations well in advance, and make sure to arrive in Arlington a day or two before the marathon.
- Know the Course: Familiarize yourself with the course map and elevation profile to help you prepare for the race.
Conclusion
The Marine Corps Marathon is a premier running event that attracts runners from all over the world. With its fast and flat course, scenic views, and significant charity fundraising efforts, it’s an event that every runner should experience at least once. Make sure to mark your calendars for the last Sunday of October and get ready to run with the best of the best!
