Marathon

Marine Corps Marathon

Marine Corps Marathon combines a Pentagon-area start, DC landmarks, late gauntlet cutoffs, and a USATF-certified Boston-qualifying DC course.

Next raceSunday, October 25, 2026
Distance categoryMarathon
LocationArlington, Virginia
Boston qualifierYes
Get alertsLast checked August 4, 2026BQ times

Quick facts

  • USATF-certified course whose finish times can be used for Boston qualifying.
  • Large U.S. marathon with a Pentagon-area start and Marine Corps War Memorial finish.
  • Course includes timed gauntlet points that matter for back-half pacing.
  • Official registration is handled through Haku.

About the Marine Corps Marathon

The People's Marathon is one of the largest U.S. marathons, with military organization, no prize-money focus, and high runner demand across Arlington and Washington, DC.

Course

The race starts in Arlington, crosses into Washington for Georgetown and National Mall miles, then returns through Crystal City before the uphill finish at the Marine Corps War Memorial.

Race-day weather

Late October in the DC area is usually manageable, but exposed bridge and river sections can bring wind. The cutoff gauntlets make even pacing more than a comfort choice.

Past Marine Corps Marathon dates and results

YearDateStatusResults
2026Sunday, October 25, 2026Upcoming
2025Sunday, October 26, 2025CompletedOpen results
2024Sunday, October 27, 2024CompletedOpen results

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Marine Corps Marathon FAQ

When is the Marine Corps Marathon?

The 2026 Marine Corps Marathon is on Sunday, October 25, 2026.

Is Marine Corps Marathon a Boston qualifier?

Yes. Marine Corps 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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