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Philadelphia Marathon
Philadelphia Marathon
Philadelphia Marathon
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Philadelphia Marathon
LocationPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania
DistanceMarathon
Primary sponsorAACR
Established1954
Course recordsMen: 2:13:28 (2021)
Kenya Mike Chesire
Women: 2:28:34 (2021)
Canada Leslie Sexton
Official sitePhiladelphia Marathon
Participants12,381 (2024)
11,438 (2023)

The Philadelphia Marathon (aka the Philadelphia Independence Marathon) is an annual marathon sporting event held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on the third Sunday of November. The Philadelphia Marathon ranks among the top ten in the nation's largest marathons with over 10,000 finishers.[1] The marathon course is professionally certified at 42.195 kilometres (26.219 mi) by the Road Running Technical Council of USA Track & Field.[2][3]

History

[edit]

The roots of the Philadelphia Marathon (aka the Philadelphia Independence Marathon and today known as the AACR Philadelphia Marathon) can be traced back to 1954, the race's unofficial inaugural year. The marathon then largely was a suburban event and went by many different names; the Greater Philadelphia Independence Marathon (1981–82) and the Fairmount Park Marathon (1988–89). The marathon today, was established under the name of the Philadelphia Marathon in 1994 under then Mayor Ed Rendell as an annual running event that took place entirely within the City of Philadelphia. The first race in 1994 had a little over 1,500 runners.[4]

This yearly event takes place on the 3rd Sunday in November or “the Sunday before Thanksgiving”. The Marathon is a top U.S. running event and top Boston qualifier with 30,000 runners participating in one or more of 7 featured events. Those events include, the AACR Philadelphia Marathon, Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon, Rothman Orthopaedic 8K and four challenges where runners compete in completing multiple race combinations over two days. The Philadelphia Marathon Weekend has over 60,000 spectators and 3,000 volunteers who provide valuable race day support. Working along with volunteers from local schools, colleges and universities and the community actively participate to organize cheer zones, manage replenishment stations, monitor the course and provide support to help runners have their best possible runner experience while in the “City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection”.

As a major City event, the Marathon is produced by the City of Philadelphia, Managing Director's Office. In 1995, a group of dedicated runners and Dr. Peter Sharkey of the Rothman Institute, a top Philadelphia orthopedic practice[5], sponsored a smaller running event as part of the Sunday Marathon event. Now, 23 years and 3,000 runners later, the Rothman 8K is an integral part of Marathon Weekend. In 2006, a half marathon was added to the Sunday line up by Janis Pierce, the City Representative at that time, and a runner, and in 2016 the race moved to a two-day event with the half marathon and 8K on Saturday and full marathon on Sunday.

In 2011, two competitors died, which were the first deaths to occur in the Philadelphia Marathon in over a decade.[6] The first was Jeffrey Lee, a 21-year-old Nursing and Wharton student attending the University of Pennsylvania. Having collapsed after crossing the finish line of an apparent heart attack, the cause of his death remains unknown. Although the cause of death was officially diagnosed as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, after further examination of the autopsy, it was concluded that the diagnosis may not have been accurate since the size of his heart would have been normal for an athlete. Therefore, medical professionals believe his death may have been caused by an underlying heart condition, not a heart attack.[7] The second death was of Chris Gleason, a 40-year-old experienced triathlete from Clifton Park, NY. Gleason collapsed a quarter-mile from the finish line from heart attack.[8]

In 2020, the Marathon was cancelled after mayor Jim Kenney announced a moratorium on public gatherings of more than 50 people within the city of Philadelphia on July 14 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[9] Registrants were given the option of either transferring their entry to 2021, 2022, or 2023, or obtaining a refund.[10]

In 2021, the marathon was held under a restrictions that only vaccinated runners may participate in all events and the Dunkin Kids Fun Run was cancelled.[11] The race had over 21,000 runners between in-person events and virtually.[12]

In 2023, a combined 34,000 runners participated in the race weekend, including the full marathon, half marathon, 8K, and children's race. This broke the record for the total number of participants.[4] This was also the first time in a decade that the marathon had completely sold out.[13]

In 2024, the marathon race had 12,381 finishers. This set a new record for the race, passing the previous peak of 11,641 set back in 2012.[14]

In 2025, the marathon sold out for the third year in a row. The race reached capacity much earlier than it had in the previous two years, with an announcement made on July 4.[15]

Course

[edit]

The course begins and ends at the Philadelphia Museum of Art on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The Philadelphia Marathon course is relatively flat and offers a view of many historical landmarks that include Independence Hall, the Betsy Ross House and the Liberty Bell.[16] The course travels the streets of Old City on Penn's Landing, parallel to the Delaware River, along the Schuylkill River and out to Manayunk.[16] The highest elevation in the course is approximately 148 feet.[17]

Runner information

[edit]

The event also serves as a qualifying race for entry into the Boston Marathon for participants whose times meet age group bracketed standards. The race also features a state of the art timing system, using a small chip that attached to the back of each runner's bib that provides a 'chip time' for when the person has crossed the start and finish lines, as well as giving a traditional 'gun time'.

Health and Fitness Expo - Runners pick up their race packets that include a race bib, timing tag, T-shirt and bag at the free two-day health and fitness expo located in the Pennsylvania Convention Center.[16]

Cheer Zones – Spectators can select from more than 20 cheer zones throughout the course to show support to the runners.[18]

Transportation - Detours throughout parts of the city begin at 3AM and run until 1PM [18]

Awards

[edit]

Several cash prizes are awarded for the full marathon.[19]

  • 1st - $10,000 one male & one female (Course Record Bonus: $1,500, one male & one female for each)
  • 2nd - $5,000 one male & one female
  • 3rd - $2,500 one male & one female
  • 1st - Masters - $1,000 one male & one female
  • 1st - Philadelphian - $1,000 one male & one female (must be a resident of Philadelphia County, determined by ZIP code)
  • 1st - Wheelchair - $1,000

All marathon runners receive a Philadelphia Marathon T-shirt, a Finisher Medal and a finisher certificate (available online after the race).[20]

Other races

[edit]

Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon

[edit]

The Half Marathon was added to Race Weekend in 2006 and winds through Philadelphia's most scenic and historic neighborhoods. From the history-steeped streets of Old City, through one of the liveliest stretches of Center City, across the Schuylkill, up through the bucolic trails of Fairmount Park, and back down to canvas the banks of the river. The course is also sanctioned by USA Track & Field. Dietz and Watson is the current sponsor for the half-marathon portion of the Philadelphia Marathon weekend. Each runner receives a t-shirt, a finisher medal and a finisher certificate (available online after the race).[21]

Rothman 8K

[edit]

The Rothman Orthopaedic sponsors an 8-km (about 5 miles) companion race to the Philadelphia Marathon. This race follows a shorter loop of the marathon, starting off on the expansive Benjamin Franklin Parkway before taking a turn on the scenic banks of the Schuylkill River and Martin Luther King Drive or Kelly Drive. Each runner receives a T-shirt, a finisher medal and a finisher certificate (available online after the race).

Environmental impact

[edit]

The AACR Philadelphia Marathon collaborated with the Mayor's Office of Civic Engagement to turn the race into an eco-friendly sporting event.

In 2007, the Marathon's eco-friendly events began with recycling paper, cardboard, plastics, food and medals. Each year the “going green” efforts continued. Pallets were recycled, the Marathon partnered with the More Foundation by recycling sneakers to support families in Ghana, partnered with the Streets Department and began composting cups and organics and introduced the “Waste Watchers Volunteers” to facilitate on-site sorting. In 2012–2013, the Philadelphia Marathon received a Gold Certification from the Council of responsible Sport (ReSport) and organization that certifies special events for environmental sustainability and community engagement. In 2014-15 the Marathon received Green Certification along with achieving Zero Waste (over 90% diversion waste from landfill).

Some of the sustainable initiatives include:

  • Recycling heat sheets
  • Collecting and donating outer layers of warm up clothes
  • Recycling runners bags
  • Composting cups
  • Melting down and recycling excess runners medals [22]

Winners

[edit]
Year Men's time Men's winner Country Women's time Women's winner Country Non-binary time Non-binary winner Country
23 Nov, 2025 2:13:58 Melikhaya Frans  South Africa 2:34:56 Anna Oeser  United States Bryce Ott 3:20:15
24 Nov, 2024 2:16:12[23] William Loevner  United States 2:32:42[23] Katie Florio  United States Reed Williams 2:46:33  United States
19 Nov, 2023 2:14:26 Benard Kiptoo Koech  Kenya 2:30:53 Mercy Jerop Kwambai  Kenya Kassian Eaton 2:35:38[24]  United States
20 Nov, 2022 2:14:20 Dominic Ondoro  Kenya 2:31:35 Amber Zimmerman  United States
21 Nov, 2021 2:13:28 Michael Chesire  Kenya 2:28:34 Leslie Sexton  Canada
Not held 2020 due to COVID-19
24 Nov, 2019 2:16:31 Deriba Degefa  Ethiopia 2:32:49 Feyne Gemeda  Ethiopia
18 Nov, 2018 2:14:47 Tadesse Dabi  Ethiopia 2:32:53 Serkalem Biset Abrha  Ethiopia
19 Nov, 2017 2:16:25 Boniface Kongin  Kenya 2:38:14 Sarah Kiptoo  United States
20 Nov, 2016 2:15:53 Jonathan Cheruiyot  Kenya 2:36:25 Taylor Ward  United States
22 Nov, 2015 2:17:44 Teklu Deneke  Ethiopia 2:40:05 Gisela Olalde  Mexico
23 Nov, 2014 2:17:28 Dan Vassallo  United States 2:40:00 Leonora Petrina  United States
17 Nov, 2013 2:17:28 Abebe Mekuriya  Ethiopia 2:39:06 Irina Alexandrova  Russia
18 Nov, 2012 2:17:49 Michael McKeeman  United States 2:35:37 Irina Mashkantseva  Russia
20 Nov, 2011 2:19:16 Folisho Tuko  United States 2:35:46 Mariska Kramer  Netherlands
22 Nov, 2010 2:21:28 Daniel Vassallo (MA)  United States 2:38:55 Mariska Kramer  Netherlands
22 Nov, 2009 2:17:15 John Crews (NC)  United States 2:46:44 Jutta Merilainen  Finland
23 Nov, 2008 2:19:57 Andriy Toptun  Ukraine 2:44:02 Vera Ovcharuk  Ukraine
18 Nov, 2007 2:25:01 Timothy Psitet  Kenya 2:42:05 Kristin Price (NC)  United States
19 Nov, 2006 2:17:09 Hosea Kimutai  Kenya 2:40:31 Maryina Bychkova  Russia
20 Nov, 2005 2:21:02 Joseph Ndiritu-2  Kenya 2:43:07 Emily Kroshus  Canada
21 Nov, 2004 2:19:43 Michael Korir-2  Kenya 2:41:57 Larisa Mikhailova  Russia
23 Nov, 2003 2:16:47 Joseph Ndiritu  Kenya 2:45:05 Seana Carmean (MA)  United States
24 Nov, 2002 2:18:43 Michael Korir  Kenya 2:39:47 Tatyana Maslova  Russia
18 Nov, 2001 2:21:07 Gennadiy Temnikov  Russia 2:41:05 Elena Plastinina  Ukraine
19 Nov, 2000 2:18:03 Brian Clas (NY)  United States 2:41:56 Elvira Kolpakova  Russia
21 Nov, 1999 2:25:46 Tesfaye Bekele Ethiopia 2:37:59 Anne Marie Lauck (NJ)  United States
22 Nov, 1998 2:24:12 Ryan Grote (NJ)  United States 2:44:59 Jan Wanklyn-2  United States
23 Nov, 1997 2:19:03 Gavin Gaynor (PA)  United States 2:41:35 Sarah Hunter  Canada
24 Nov, 1996 2:19:55 Nikolic Srba  Yugoslavia 2:50:01 Bea Marie Altieri (MD)  United States
19 Nov, 1995 2:20:15 Mark Andrews (NC)  United States 2:39:54 Jeanne Peterson (NY)  United States
20 Nov, 1994 2:21:22 Charles Crabb (PA)  United States 2:52:08 Jan Wanklyn (PA)  United States
Not held 1990-93
1989 2:22 Tim Wunch  United States
1988 2:32:23 Fred Schneck (PA)  United States
29 Nov, 1987 2:24:08 Tim Wunsch  United States 2:54:12 Lori Lawson  United States
23 Nov, 1986 2:25:25 Ira Meyers (PA)  United States 2:47:15 Doreen Mastalli (NY)  United States
24 Nov, 1985 2:18:27a Derick Adamson-2  Jamaica 2:38:30a Sandra Mewett  Bermuda
25 Nov, 1984 2:16:39a Derick Adamson  Jamaica 2:42:30a Barbara Filtuze (PA)  United States
27 Nov, 1983 2:15:26a Sam Pelletier (ME)  United States 2:36:38a Jane Welzel  United States
28 Nov, 1982 2:14:59a William Scholl (NJ)  United States 2:34:28a Jan Yerkes-2  United States
29 Nov, 1981 2:17:25a Dave Patterson (PA)  United States 2:39:11a Jan Yerkes (PA)  United States
30 Nov, 1980 2:26:18 William Devoe  United States 3:04:36 Pam Borowsky  United States
25 Nov, 1979 2:30:06 Richard Hayden  United States 3:05:21 Chris Schilling  United States
26 Nov, 1978 2:22:38 Richard diSebastian-2  United States 2:56:05 Carol Geig  United States
1977 2:25:59 Richard diSebastian  United States none
1976 2:24:59.6 Dave Patterson  United States
29 Nov, 1975 2:26:12 Carlo Cherubino &
Larry Frederick		  United States 3:04:44 Nancy Kent Cornell
01 Dec, 1974 2:21:57 Bill Rodgers (MA)  United States 3:25:33 Mary Devlin  United States
25 Nov, 1973 2:29:44.4 Bill Bragg  United States
26 Nov, 1972 2:27:29.5 Rick Bayko  United States
28 Nov, 1971 2:26:44.8 Moses Mayfield-2  United States
29 Nov, 1970 2:24:29 Moses Mayfield  United States none
30 Nov, 1969 2:32:52.4 Leo Duart  United States none
1968 2:36:35.6 Jim McDonagh  United States
03 Dec, 1967 2:24:23 Bill Clark (CA)  United States none
18 Dec, 1966 2:24:43.4 Amby Burfoot (CT)  United States 3:58:49 Sue Morse  United States
26 Dec, 1965 2:34:07.6 Tom Osler (NJ)  United States none
24 Jan, 1965 2:37:23 John Kelly (NY)  United States none
19 Jan, 1964 2:20:05 Adolf Gruber-2  Austria none
27 Jan, 1963 2:39:49 Adolf Gruber  Austria none
28 Jan, 1962 2:33:13.6 Ted Corbitt -4  United States none
Not held 1960-1961
25 Jan, 1959 2:29:43 Ted Corbitt-3  United States none
05 Jan, 1958 2:26:44 Ted Corbitt-2  United States none
27 Jan, 1957 2:31:19 Jack Barry-2  United States none
29 Jan, 1956 2:36:09 Jack Barry (PA)  United States none
30 Jan, 1955 2:25:23 Johnny J Kelley  United States none
31 Jan, 1954 2:36:06 Ted Corbitt (NY)  United States none

Winners by Country

Number Country Last Time
64 United States 2024
9 Kenya 2021
7 Russia 2013
6 Ethiopia 2019
3 Ukraine 2008
3 Canada 2021
2 Netherlands 2011
2 Jamaica 1985
2 Austria 1964
1 Mexico 2015
1 Finland 2009
1 Yugoslavia 1996
1 Bermuda 1985

Winners by Continent

Number Continent Last Time
71 North America 2024
15 Africa 2021
9 Europe 2011
7 Asia 2013


Sponsors

[edit]

In 2013, Gore-Tex was announced to be the title sponsor for the next three years.[25]

In 2017, American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) was announced to be the title sponsor for the next three years for the full marathon.[26]

In 2017, Dietz & Watson was announced to be the official sponsor for the half marathon.[27]

In 2017, the Rothman Institute agreed to continue its sponsorship of the 8K event. The Rothman Institute has been part of the Philadelphia Marathon for over 19 years, dating back to when Drs. Richard Rothman and Peter Sharkey began sponsoring the 8K as part of their community outreach efforts.[28]

In 2017, Dunkin' Donuts was announced to be the official sponsor for the Dunkin' Munchkins Run.[29]

In 2018, Garmin joined the team of sponsors for the Marathon, and was named the official timer and running watch for that year's marathon.[citation needed]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Philadelphia Marathon

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Philadelphia Marathon is an annual road running event held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, featuring a full 26.2-mile (42.195 km) marathon as the centerpiece of the multi-day Philadelphia Marathon Weekend, which includes a half marathon, 8K run, and kids' run. First organized in 1994 with just 1,500 participants, the event has expanded significantly to attract over 30,000 runners annually, establishing it as one of the top ten largest marathons in the United States. The marathon, officially titled the AACR Philadelphia Marathon after its title sponsor the , takes place on the last Sunday of November, with the 2025 edition scheduled for November 23. It holds Label Road Race status, signifying its adherence to international standards for elite competition and course certification by (USATF). The race serves as a qualifying event for the , with organizers collaborating directly with the Boston Athletic Association to verify times. The USATF-certified course starts and finishes on the , winding through iconic landmarks such as , the Trail, University City, Manayunk, and the before concluding at the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Known for its relatively flat, scenic profile and supportive crowds, the route highlights Philadelphia's blend of green spaces, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural sites, making it a popular choice for both elite athletes and recreational runners seeking personal bests. Additional sponsorship from entities like and Rothman Orthopaedics supports the weekend's festivities, which emphasize community engagement and charitable causes, including .

History

Origins and Early Years

The origins of the Philadelphia Marathon trace back to organized marathons in the city dating to at least the , when races occurred on courses from Philadelphia suburbs into the city. The first ongoing iteration began as an unofficial event in 1954, organized by the Shanahan Catholic Club as a small-scale race known as the Shanahan Catholic Club Marathon. Held primarily as a suburban affair with a modest number of participants, the event featured a roughly 26-mile course through areas like , often consisting of out-and-back loops or multi-lap routes that were uncertified and varied annually. The race gained more structure in the under increased city involvement, adopting the name Philadelphia Marathon from 1970 to 1975 and resuming after brief interruptions. Its first notably official iteration occurred in 1976 as the Bicentennial Marathon, commemorating the U.S. bicentennial with nearly 500 runners competing along sidewalks of the , marking a shift toward broader recognition while maintaining a low-key profile. Throughout the pre-1994 era, the event experienced multiple pauses—not held in 1960–1961, 1975, 1988–1989, or 1990–1993—and saw participant numbers remain modest, typically under 1,000 annually, with course changes including point-to-point formats in the 1980s under names like the Marathon (1981–1987). Tragically, the marathon's early modern years were marred by the deaths of two runners during the 2011 edition. Jeffrey Lee, a 21-year-old student, collapsed immediately after finishing the and was transported to , where he was pronounced dead from an apparent cardiac event, later linked to based on expert speculation pending full . Similarly, G. Chris Gleason, a 40-year-old lawyer from , suffered a fatal heart attack approximately a quarter-mile from the full marathon finish line; emergency responders from the , stationed along the route, attended to him before he too was taken to the hospital and declared deceased. In response, race officials expressed condolences and initiated immediate reviews of medical protocols, though no formal investigation altered the event's continuation that year.

Expansion and Modern Era

The Philadelphia Marathon was re-established as an annual city-sponsored event in 1994 under the leadership of Mayor , drawing 1,500 participants for the inaugural race held entirely within city limits to highlight Philadelphia's landmarks and promote urban vitality. The event quickly expanded its format, adding the 8K race in the mid-1990s as a shorter companion event along the and introducing the in 2006 to accommodate a wider range of runners and boost overall participation. These additions transformed the single-day marathon into the multi-event Philadelphia Marathon Weekend, complete with a two-day & Fitness Expo starting in the mid-2000s. Growth accelerated in the ensuing decades, with the event achieving a record 34,442 registered participants across all races in 2023 and 12,381 finishers in the full marathon in 2024, establishing it as one of the top 10 largest marathons in the United States. The 2025 edition sold out in August 2025, reflecting sustained demand and the race's evolution into a premier fall running destination. The posed significant challenges, resulting in the full cancellation of the 2020 event due to public health restrictions on large gatherings. In 2021, organizers adapted with a scaled-back in-person format limited to 50% capacity alongside virtual participation options, allowing registered runners to complete distances remotely while prioritizing safety protocols like vaccination requirements. To further engage participants, the Marathon Weekend introduced multi-race challenges, including the Triple Crown—comprising the full marathon, , and 8K—awarding special medals for completing all three events over the weekend and fostering a sense of accomplishment among dedicated runners. This structure, now a hallmark of the modern era, has solidified the event's role as a comprehensive running festival emphasizing community, fitness, and Philadelphia's historic appeal.

Race Events

Full Marathon

The AACR Philadelphia Marathon is the flagship event of the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend, covering the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometers (26.2 miles). Held annually in late on a Sunday, the 2025 edition is scheduled for November 23. As a USATF-certified course, it attracts a diverse field of runners seeking a challenging yet scenic urban race experience. The race begins at 7:00 a.m. from 22nd Street and , adjacent to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, with an earlier 6:55 a.m. start for push-rim and athletes. Participants are divided into waves based on their estimated finish times, allowing for a staggered start that accommodates elite athletes, qualifiers, and general runners. The event employs to ensure accurate net times for all finishers, with a course time limit of seven hours. Certified as a Boston Marathon qualifier, the Philadelphia Marathon enables strong performers to earn entry into the prestigious event. In 2023, the race saw 11,418 finishers, reflecting its growing popularity and broad demographic appeal among recreational and competitive runners. Integrated into the broader AACR Philadelphia Marathon Weekend, it features a preceding and fitness expo for participant education and vendor interactions, along with on-site packet pickup to streamline race preparation.

Half Marathon and 8K

The Philadelphia Half Marathon covers 13.1 miles and was added to Philadelphia Marathon Weekend in 2006, attracting growing numbers of runners annually as a more accessible entry point to the event series. The race starts along the near the Philadelphia Museum of Art, passing through historic neighborhoods including Old City, Center City, University City, and , with a focus on scenic yet challenging terrain that includes elevation changes. It draws typically around 15,000 participants, such as the 15,000 registered in 2024, emphasizing its appeal to beginners seeking a test run before attempting longer distances. The Rothman Orthopaedics 8K, sponsored by the orthopedic specialists at Rothman Orthopaedics to promote running and joint health, spans 4.97 miles along the and . Held on the of race weekend, it provides a shorter, scenic option for participants, with about 5,000 runners in recent years like 2024. The event is USATF-certified and features fluid stations and spectator areas, making it suitable for walkers and those prioritizing health-focused participation. The Children's Run, a 1K event for children ages 4 and older, takes place on morning before the marathon start, attracting around 1,000 young participants annually to encourage early fitness and community involvement. Complementing these races are multi-event challenges that encourage broader engagement, including the Patriot Challenge, where runners complete both the and 8K on Saturday to earn a unique Patriot Challenge medal. For those tackling all three distances across the weekend, the Freedom Challenge awards a special Freedom Challenge medal, highlighting the events' emphasis on personal achievement and accessibility for diverse fitness levels. In 2023, the alone saw nearly 17,000 finishers, underscoring the races' role in fostering inclusive community participation.

Course

Route Description

The Philadelphia Marathon begins and ends at 22nd Street and the , adjacent to the iconic "" of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The 26.2-mile course is a point-to-point route with loops through Center City, incorporating urban streets, riverfront paths, and parkland, all on paved road surfaces. It is certified by as a qualifier. The race starts with the first 5 miles traversing the Fairmount area and into Old City, heading southeast along the , past Columbus Boulevard at mile 2.8, and reaching 6th and Walnut Streets at mile 5.1. Miles 6 through 13 shift westward through University City and into , passing 31st and Walnut Streets at mile 7.1, 34th Street and Fairmount Avenue at mile 8.5, and the Avenue of the Republic near the Carousel House at mile 10.2, before following alongside the . The half marathon follows the same route for the initial miles through Center City and University City before diverging around mile 7 into along the , while the full marathon continues westward. From miles 14 to 20, runners continue along the on , reaching Edgley Drive at mile 14.4 and Fountain Green at mile 15.8, then looping into Manayunk via an out-and-back on , with turnarounds near Ridge Avenue at mile 18.9 and Cotton Street at mile 19.8. The final 6.2 miles return eastward along , passing Ferry Street at mile 22.3 and Fountain Green again at mile 24.8, before ascending slightly to the finish line at the Museum of Art. Overall, the course features a net change of just , with a maximum of 136 feet and total gain of 651 feet, making it predominantly flat and suitable for fast times. The Rothman Orthopaedics 8K runs as a separate out-and-back loop primarily along in , starting from the same point but diverging early without overlapping the full or half marathon routes extensively.

Key Features and Certification

The Philadelphia Marathon course is celebrated for its speed-friendly design, characterized by a predominantly flat profile with a total elevation gain of approximately 198 meters (651 feet), which contributes to its reputation as one of the fastest marathons in the United States and a top venue for qualifying times for major events like the . This minimal elevation variation allows runners to maintain consistent pacing, with the course's net elevation near zero, starting and finishing at similar altitudes near the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The layout emphasizes efficiency, transitioning from urban streets to smoother waterfront paths, which further supports personal best performances. A key appeal of the course lies in its passage through Philadelphia's historic and scenic landmarks, including , the , Boathouse Row, and the picturesque trails along the . These sites create an inspiring urban-to-waterfront progression, blending with natural beauty, such as the iconic row of boathouses illuminated along the river in the final miles, motivating participants as they approach the finish. The integration of these elements not only enhances the visual experience but also underscores the event's connection to the city's revolutionary history and vibrant outdoor spaces. The course's certification ensures precision and reliability, having been certified by (USATF) since 1994, with GPS-verified measurements confirming the exact 42.195-kilometer distance. This certification process includes annual reviews to uphold standards, making it a trusted platform for competitive racing. Accessibility is prioritized through the inclusion of a professional division, which offers dedicated awards and requires safety features like helmets for participants. The route's design also supports broad engagement, being spectator-friendly with numerous designated cheer zones that line the path, fostering an energetic atmosphere for athletes of all abilities.

Participant Information

Registration and Preparation

Registration for the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend, which includes the full marathon, , and 8K events, is conducted online through the official website via platforms like Race Roster. Participants must create an account and select their event, with registration typically opening in late fall of the prior year at early bird pricing that increases over time based on volume tiers and capacity. Participants in the full marathon must be at least 16 years old on race day. Entry fees for the full marathon generally range from $120 to $150, depending on the timing of registration, while charity entries through partners like the (AACR) offer alternative access with fundraising commitments. The events are highly popular and sell out quickly; for instance, the 2025 editions of the full marathon and sold out in record time by August 14, 2025, more than two months earlier than previous years, prompting a waitlist option that closed on October 23, 2025. Registration for the 2026 Philadelphia Marathon Weekend opens on November 21, 2025, offering limited early bird discounts. There are no qualifying time requirements to enter the Philadelphia Marathon, making it accessible to runners of varying abilities, though the full marathon course is certified by the (USATF) as a Boston Marathon qualifier, allowing participants to achieve qualifying times for the Boston Athletic Association's event. Runners are categorized by age groups for awards and results, with separate divisions for elites, who may receive invitations or priority based on prior performances, and inclusive options for adaptive athletes or first-timers. Non-elite entries operate on a first-come, first-served basis without a lottery system, emphasizing the need for prompt registration upon opening. The & Fitness Expo serves as a key pre-race event, held over two days—Friday and Saturday before the race—at the in downtown . It features over 100 vendors offering running gear, products, and apparel, along with seminars on training, injury prevention, and race strategies led by experts. Packet pickup, including bib numbers and timing chips, is mandatory at the expo; for 2025, participants must schedule their pickup slot in advance via link to streamline the process and reduce wait times. To aid preparation, the organizers provide free downloadable training plans on their website, tailored for novice to advanced runners across marathon, , and 8K distances, developed in collaboration with coaches like . These plans include structured weekly schedules with easy runs, tempo workouts, and long runs, supplemented by pace zone charts to guide training intensities based on goal finish times. An official apparel and gear store is accessible online through the registration platform, with additional merchandise available at the expo, while pace calculators and band generators can be used via affiliated tools to predict splits on the certified course.

Race Day Experience

The Philadelphia Marathon begins at 7:00 a.m. on the 2200 block of , east of , with a wave start system designed to minimize congestion and accommodate runners of varying paces. Participants are assigned to one of several corrals (A through H) based on their submitted expected finish times, ranging from elite athletes in a dedicated ELITE corral to those anticipating 5:00 to 7:00 hours, ensuring a smooth entry into the race. Elite seeding prioritizes top performers, while gear check services open at 5:00 a.m. on the south side of , allowing runners to securely store belongings in clear bags tagged with their bib number until 3:00 p.m. post-race. Security checkpoints activate at the same time, requiring visible race bibs for entry into the secure area. Throughout the 26.2-mile course, runners benefit from robust support infrastructure tailored to sustain performance and safety. There are 13 aid stations positioned approximately every 2 to 3 miles, offering water at all locations and Nuun Lemon Lime Endurance hydration, with XACT Energy fruit bars available at miles 11, 18, and 22 for additional fueling. Medical support is integrated at these aid stations, supplemented by SAG vehicles that can transport injured runners to a primary medical tent at 24th and Spring Garden streets, providing comprehensive care every few miles. Live tracking is facilitated through the official Philadelphia Marathon Weekend app, allowing family and friends to monitor progress in real-time using the runner's bib number. The race atmosphere energizes participants with vibrant crowds and entertainment along the route, creating an immersive urban running experience. Thousands of spectators line key sections of the course, particularly in cheer zones like 22nd and Walnut, offering encouragement that propels runners forward through historic neighborhoods and scenic waterfronts. Entertainment features DJs and live bands stationed at these zones, adding musical motivation and festive vibes to the event. The post-race festival at immediately welcomes finishers with a celebratory gathering, including food vendors, services, and sponsor activations for recovery and relaxation. Upon crossing the finish line in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, marathoners receive a custom finisher , a long-sleeve technical shirt, and immediate access to post-race such as bananas and other refreshments. A digital finisher certificate is available for , commemorating the achievement within a strict 7-hour time limit that equates to a 16-minute-per-mile pace, ensuring all participants can complete the certified course. This array of amenities underscores the event's commitment to a rewarding conclusion for every runner.

Competition

Awards and Prizes

The Philadelphia Marathon offers cash prizes and awards in distinct divisions to incentivize elite and open competition. In the professional division, which is invitation-only, the top five male and female finishers receive escalating cash amounts: $10,000 for first place, $7,500 for second, $5,000 for third, $2,500 for fourth, and $1,500 for fifth, along with trophies. Additional bonuses include $1,000 for the first-place Philadelphian finisher in each category and a $1,000 course record bonus for male, female, or non-binary athletes who set new marks. The open division provides equal prize money across male, female, and non-binary categories, reflecting recent inclusivity efforts, with top-three finishers awarded $4,000 for first, $2,000 for second, and $1,000 for third, plus trophies. Masters athletes (typically aged 40 and older, though integrated into broader age groups) receive $1,000 for first place in their category, and the top Philadelphian in the open division earns $1,000. A separate professional division awards $5,000 to the first-place male or female, $3,750 for second, $2,500 for third, and $1,250 for fourth, with all prizes based on gun time. Non-monetary category awards recognize performance across age groups for all participants, with the top five male and female finishers (and top three non-binary) in divisions such as 18-24, 25-29, 30-34, 40-44, 50-54, and 60+ receiving medals or gear like jackets. athletes in non-professional categories also qualify for age-group recognition, provided they use push-rim wheelchairs and maintain event pace requirements. Awards are presented at a post-race ceremony on the , where top overall and division winners collect prizes immediately following the event, while age-group awards are mailed to recipients in the weeks after to ensure broad accessibility. Eligibility requires finishing the registered event with a visible bib, adhering to a 16-minute-per-mile pace, and for professionals, prior invitation based on qualifying times; cross-event participation disqualifies athletes from all prizes. Historically, the prize structure has evolved with growing sponsorship, increasing the total purse from approximately $18,750 in 2010 to $30,000 by 2023, enabling deeper payouts and new categories like non-binary awards introduced in 2024.

Winners and Records

The Philadelphia Marathon has seen competitive fields dominated by international talent in recent years, with notable performances from both elite athletes and local runners. In 2024, William Loevner of the won the men's race in 2:16:13, marking a strong showing for American competitors. Katie Florio, also from the and a native, claimed the women's title in 2:32:42, becoming the second local woman to win the event. The previous year, in 2023, Kenyan runners Benard Kiptoo Koech (2:14:26) and Mercy Jerop Kwambai (2:30:53) took the men's and women's victories, respectively, continuing a pattern of high-speed finishes. In 2022, Tanzania's Dominic Ondoro won the men's race in 2:14:20, while American Amber Zimmerman secured the women's win in 2:31:35. These results highlight the event's appeal to global elites while showcasing rising domestic talent. The current course records, set during a fast edition in 2021 amid favorable conditions and as of November 2024, stand at 2:13:28 for men by Kenya's Michael Chesire and 2:28:34 for women by Canada's Leslie Sexton. These marks represent the quickest times on the modern point-to-point course, certified by , and have held firm despite competitive fields in subsequent years. No new records were set in 2024, as Loevner's and Florio's times fell short of these benchmarks. Throughout the 2010s, East African runners, particularly from and , exerted significant dominance in the elite divisions, winning the majority of titles due to their exceptional endurance and tactical racing. For instance, Kenyan athletes like Kimutai Cheruiyot (2016, 2:15:53) and Bernard Kiptoo (2017, 2:15:22) not only claimed victories but also pushed course records to new lows during that decade. Post-2020, there has been a noticeable uptick in U.S. winners, reflecting improved domestic training programs and local appeal, with American athletes taking three of the last four women's titles and the 2024 men's crown. This shift underscores broader trends in American , where national runners are increasingly competitive against international fields.
RankMen's All-Time Top 10 Fastest Performances (All Courses, Noting 2021 Point-to-Point Change)TimeYearNationality
1Michael Chesire2:13:282021KEN
2Dominic Ondoro2:14:202022TAN
3Benard Kiptoo Koech2:14:262023KEN
4William Scholl2:15:001982USA
5Sam Pelletier2:15:261983USA
6Boniface Kiprop Kongin2:16:252017KEN
7William Loevner2:16:132024USA
8Derrick Adamson2:16:391984USA
9Joseph Ndiritu2:16:472003KEN
10Hosea Kiptanui2:17:092006KEN
RankWomen's All-Time Top 10 Fastest Performances (All Courses, Noting 2021 Point-to-Point Change)TimeYearNationality
1Leslie Sexton2:28:342021CAN
2Mercy Jerop Kwambai2:30:532023KEN
3Amber Zimmerman2:31:352022USA
4Katie Florio2:32:422024USA
5Jan Yerkes2:34:281982USA
6Irina Mashkantseva2:35:372012RUS
7Jane Welzel2:36:381983USA
82:36:252016USA
9Anne-Marie Lauck2:37:591999USA
10Sara Kiptoo Cheriwoi2:38:142017KEN
The division, introduced in the early to promote inclusivity, has featured standout performances since its formal recognition around 2010, with George Gallego of the recording the first documented win in 2:34:34 that year. Notable achievements include multiple victories by Michelle Wheeler, who has dominated the women's wheelchair category since her debut in 2015, winning in times as quick as 2:03:43 in 2024 (her fastest to date) and 2:17:47 in 2022, earning Paralympic acclaim. The event has also advanced gender parity in participation, with recent editions approaching 50% female entrants overall—particularly balanced in younger age groups—and expanded categories for nonbinary athletes since 2023 to foster equitable representation across all divisions.

Impact and Sustainability

Environmental Initiatives

The Philadelphia Marathon has pursued environmental sustainability since 2007, when it initiated eco-friendly practices such as recycling paper, cardboard, plastics, food waste, and even unclaimed medals. These efforts evolved into a formal zero-waste goal, aiming to divert at least 90% of event-generated waste from landfills, in alignment with the widely accepted definition of zero waste. By 2015, the marathon achieved this target, diverting 90% of waste through coordinated volunteer programs and material recovery systems. Key practices include the use of compostable, wax-lined cups at aid stations to replace single-use plastic bottles, enabling the composting of approximately 300,000 cups per event, along with the deployment of and bins throughout the course and spectator areas. Additional measures encompass the collection and of discarded runner and gear to local charities, as well as of heat sheets and excess race materials like bibs and medals. These initiatives are supported by volunteer "Waste Watchers" who educate participants on proper sorting, contributing to annual waste diversions exceeding nine tons from landfills. The marathon collaborates with the City of Philadelphia's Mayor's Office of and Philacycle program to implement these strategies, earning recognition as an Official Partner with Silver Status for events achieving over 89% diversion rates, such as the 89.3% recorded in 2018. Annual sustainability reports highlight ongoing progress; for instance, in 2023, the event collected and donated nearly 450 bags of , reducing textile waste and supporting local nonprofits. In 2024, the event collected 450 bags of for donation, continuing to reduce textile waste. The disrupted operations, with the 2020 event canceled due to public health restrictions, leading to a temporary halt in in-person sustainability metrics tracking. Post-2020 recovery has seen renewed focus, with the 2021 return emphasizing scaled-back but effective waste diversion amid reduced attendance, and subsequent years building back to pre-pandemic levels of participation and environmental performance by 2023.

Sponsorship and Community Role

The Philadelphia Marathon Weekend is supported by several key corporate sponsors that enhance its operations and charitable focus. The (AACR) has served as the title sponsor of the full marathon since 2017, aligning the event with its mission to fund , education, and advocacy. acts as the title sponsor for the , providing branding and support as a local provider of premium deli products. Rothman Orthopaedics, a longstanding partner with over two decades of involvement, titles the 8K race and emphasizes musculoskeletal health services for runners. These partnerships have evolved from earlier city-led funding models in the , managed through the Philadelphia City Fund (PCF), to increased corporate involvement starting in the 2000s, which has expanded prize purses and the pre-race expo. Through these sponsorships, the marathon contributes significantly to community welfare, particularly in health initiatives. The AACR's involvement has enabled the raising of over $550,000 annually for and related charities, with 88 cents of every dollar directly supporting scientific efforts to prevent and cure cancer. Additionally, the event generates unrestricted revenue for the PCF, which allocates approximately $250,000 each year to local grantmaking programs that fund community projects and improve residents' quality of life. The marathon plays a vital role in by promoting tourism and awareness. Attracting a record 37,000 participants and spectators from all 50 states and more than 40 countries in , it stimulates the local economy through visitor spending on lodging, dining, and attractions. Collaborations with local charities, facilitated by the PCF and sponsors like AACR and Children's Health, further amplify and support for pediatric and community wellness programs.

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