Some people choose marathons for the scenery, while others want a marathon with a flat and fast course. In particular, those who are trying toqualify for the Boston Marathon(BQ) seek out fast marathon courses.
If you're one of those people who wants to set a marathonpersonal record (PR)or run a fast time for your first marathon, these U.S. marathons are known for being fast.
Mesa Marathon
When:February 4, 2023
Where: Mesa, Arizona
Why run it:The Sprouts Mesa Marathon (sometimes called the Phoenix Marathon) is a fast net downhill point-to-point course which drops nearly 1000 feet from start to finish. The last 10K of the race is almost completely downhill. The course and favorable running weather make this a favorite race among those seeking a PR or BQ.
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A1A Marathon
When:February 19, 2023
Where: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Why run it:If you want a fast course but don't like downhill running, the flat and scenic A1A Marathon might be the one for you. You'll feel the ocean breezes and see the palm trees as you run along one of the most famous roads in America. The race features plenty of on-course entertainment, a beach-themed finisher medal, and a post-race beach party with food, beverages, beer, and live music.
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Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon
When:May 21, 2023
Where:Cleveland, Ohio
Why run it:The Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon course is relatively flat, and it's not boring. The marathon route goes past the Cleveland Browns Stadium, Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame, and Lake Erie. The race is held in mid-May, so you won't have to worry about running in the sweltering heat.
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Mountains 2 Beach Marathon
When:May 21, 2023
Where: Ventura, California
Why run it:The Mountains 2 Beach Marathon is one of the fastest marathon courses in the United States. This point-to-point race winds through the Ventura River Valley as it makes its way to the beautiful beaches of Ventura.
Runners will love that 18 of the first 20 miles have a net downhill of over 700 feet, which is prime to make you faster but not hurt the knees. After a 6-mile pancake-flat tour of Ventura, runners and their families are treated to a finish line party only steps away from the surf and the shops and restaurants of historic downtown Ventura.
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Newport Marathon
When:June 3, 2023
Where:Newport, Oregon
Why run it:The Newport Marathon starts about 60 feet above sea level and has few gently rolling hills through a residential neighborhood. The steepest hill you'll encounter is 40 feet at mile four.
The flat marathon route hugs the Yaquina Bay for much of the race, providing you with stunning views of the water. Make sure you register early—the Newport Marathon limits the number of entries to keep the race more intimate and fun.
Grandma's Marathon
When:June 17, 2023
Where:Duluth, Minnesota
Why run it:Grandma's Marathon is ideal for first-time participants as the terrain is relatively flat with some gently rolling hills and a larger incline just before mile 22. The race is in June, but because it's in Minnesota, the weather is usually cool.
St. George Marathon
When:October 7, 2023
Where: St. George, Utah
Why run it:A popular choice for those seeking a fast fall marathon, the St. George Marathon is a net downhill, point-to-point course that starts about a mile up in the Pine Valley Mountains and descends 2600 feet to the finish. Although the course drops nearly a half-mile in elevation from start to finish, it does have a few uphills along the course.
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Wineglass Marathon
When:October 1, 2023
Where:Corning, New York
Why run it:Held in beautiful upstate New York, the Wineglass Marathon yields one of the highest percentages of runners qualifying for the Boston Marathon. The course is flat, except for a few small hills, and provides gorgeous views of the fall foliage. The race starts at about 1050 feet above sea level, finishing 26.2 miles later at an elevation of roughly 940 feet.
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Bank of America Chicago Marathon
When:October 8, 2023
Where:Chicago, Illinois
Why run it: TheChicago Marathon is a flat, fast marathon, so it's a great one to do if you've never run a marathon or you're trying to run your fastest time ever. The course offers a scenic tour of Chicago as it weaves through numerous diverse neighborhoods and local and historical landmarks. You'll see all that is great about the city of Chicagowhile being supported by tons of screaming fans.
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Mohawk-Hudson River Marathon
When:October 8, 2023
Where:Albany, New York
Why run it:Running Timesmagazine calls the Mohawk-Hudson River Marathon one of the fastest marathon routes in the country. The course generally follows the Mohawk River, including 13 miles of paved bike trails, then proceeds to the Hudson River, utilizing 5 miles of bike trails. There is a net elevation loss of 370 feet—there's just one uphill between miles 12 and 13.
The race is limited to 800 participants, which helps runners avoid getting slowed down by crowds. So sign up early if you're hoping to run this race.
Baystate Marathon
When:October 15, 2023
Where:Lowell, Massachusetts
Why run it:Organizers of theBaystate Marathon like to say that "the bridge to Boston runs through Lowell." About one-third ofthe raceparticipants run a Boston Marathon qualifying time.
Much of the course runs along the beautiful Merrimack River. The marathon is held in mid-October of each yearwhen running temperatures are ideal. It's limited to 2,000 runners and sells out quickly, so be sure to sign up early.
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Philadelphia Marathon
When: November 19, 2023
Where:Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Why run it:If you're looking for a fast big-city marathon experience but don't want to deal with the crowds, the Philadelphia Marathon may be a good option for you. The mostly flat course and almost guaranteed late November cool temperatures make a good combination for fast race times.
California International Marathon
When:December 4, 2022
Where:Sacramento, California
Why run it:The California International Marathon is hailed as "The Fastest Course in the West." The course starts at 366 feet above sea level and finishes at the State Capitol at an elevation of 26 feet.
This marathon is held in early December of each year, when average daytime temperatures are in the mid-50s—allowing for comfortable running conditions. The race is only open to 7,000 runners, so make sure to register before it fills up.
By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT
Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach.
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