HCA Marathon
Odense’s H.C. Andersen Marathon uses a flat, traffic-free city course, with neighborhood support, reliable organization, and a deep Danish club field.
Quick facts
- Flat city marathon with repeated passes through central Odense.
- Start and finish at Odense Sports Centre on a traffic-free race route.
- Multiple race distances share the weekend, with broad local support along the course.
About the HCA Marathon
HCA Marathon is Odense’s established road-running weekend, with a full marathon alongside half-marathon and shorter events. Its city layout brings runners back through central spectator areas several times.
Course
The marathon's four-leaf clover layout allows participants to loop through the city center multiple times, creating an electric atmosphere as spectators cheer from various vantage points. Runners will enjoy the historic charm of Odense, passing well-known landmarks like the cathedral, the beautiful town hall, and the newly opened H.C. Andersen House, a masterpiece by architect Kengo Kuma. The course's flatness is well suited for achieving personal bests, while its design encourages strategic pacing, particularly for those aiming for a negative split.
Race-day weather
Late September in Odense is typically cool to mild, often around 46-63°F (8-17°C). Light rain, humidity, and moderate wind are all realistic race-day factors.
Past HCA Marathon dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Sunday, September 27, 2026 | Results available | Open results |
| 2025 | Sunday, September 28, 2025 | Results available | Open results |
| 2024 | — | Results available | Open results |
Your race experience
Ran the 2026 HCA Marathon?
Share what helped you on race day: the course, transport, aid stations or finish area.
HCA Marathon FAQ
When is the HCA Marathon?
We're waiting for the finalized date for the 2027 HCA Marathon. The most recent running was on Sunday, September 27, 2026.
Is HCA Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. HCA Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier. To use the result, you must run the certified full-marathon course within the qualifying window and meet the current standard for your age and gender. Meeting the standard lets you apply but does not guarantee entry, and net-downhill courses can receive a time adjustment under current B.A.A. rules. Review the Boston qualifying times and downhill-course rules, or browse upcoming Boston qualifier marathons.
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