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Marshall University Marathon
Race Details:
- Location: Huntington, West Virginia, USA
- Race Date: 11/01/2026
- Race Distances: Full Marathon, Half Marathon
What This Race Counts Toward:
Boston: Yes
World Marathon Majors: Yes
Marshall University Marathon Description
The Marshall University Marathon is a super fast, flat, Boston qualifying race through Huntington, West Virginia. The double-loop course tours the city’s vibrant downtown and runs alongside the scenic Ohio River, offering minimal elevation change and a genuinely fast layout. A half marathon and shorter run/walk option take place the same November weekend, drawing runners chasing personal records or Boston Qualifying times to this friendly college-town race. With one of the fastest course ratings in West Virginia, it’s a strong pick for goal-time chasers.
Always check the official race website for the most accurate and up-to-date race information and logistics.
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Marshall University Marathon Additional Details:
Finishers here don’t just cross a line, they carry an actual football down the field and through the tunnel at Joan C. Edwards Stadium, capping the race on Marshall’s home turf. The medal itself is shaped like a bronze football, a nod to the university’s identity that few college-town marathons can match. Along the way, runners pass fifteen music stations mixed in among nine water stops, keeping energy up on the flat, fast layout. Participants also have the option to place flowers at the Marshall Memorial Fountain, a quiet, meaningful stop honoring the university’s history. It’s a race that blends serious BQ chasing with genuine local pride and a finish line moment unlike almost anywhere else.
Course Information
Profile: Mostly Flat
Type: Multiple Loops
Surface: Road/Pavement
Pace Groups: Yes
Time Limit: 6 hours
# of Finishers
Half Marathon: 800-900
Marathon: 379
Elevation Details
Elevation Gain: 354 ft (107 m)
Elevation Loss: 357 ft (108 m)
Average Temperature
- Low: 40°F
- High: 64°F
Train Smarter for Race Day
A great race starts long before the starting line. Whether you’re chasing your first finish or hunting a new PR, a structured training plan takes the guesswork out of race prep — building your fitness, your confidence, and your mileage at the right pace for you.
Explore plans for every distance and experience level, from your first 5K to your next ultra.
Things to Do in Huntington, West Virginia, USA
Make the most of race weekend — here’s how to fill the time before and after you cross the finish line.
Shopping
Pullman Square
Browse shops and restaurants at Pullman Square, Huntington’s downtown entertainment district near Marshall University — an easy, flat stroll for a post-race souvenir.
Museums & History
Museum of Radio & Technology
See a collection of antique radios and military communications gear at the Museum of Radio & Technology — an easy, indoor, low-impact stop after race day.
Scenic Drives & Viewpoints
Harris Riverfront Park
Take in Ohio River views from Harris Riverfront Park, with a boat ramp, amphitheater, and walking trails — a relaxed, flat way to spend a rest day.
Landmark
Heritage Farm Museum & Village
Step into Appalachian history at Heritage Farm Museum & Village, a Smithsonian affiliate with a petting zoo and country store — an easy, low-impact stop after race weekend.
Outdoors & Trails
Huntington Museum of Art Trails
Hike two miles of trails through outdoor sculpture gardens on the Huntington Museum of Art’s 52-acre campus — an easy option for tapering or recovering legs.
Arts & Culture
Huntington Museum of Art
Explore galleries and a tropical plant conservatory at the Huntington Museum of Art, with free admission every Tuesday — a relaxed, indoor way to spend a taper day.
Hotels & Lodging Near the Marshall University Marathon
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Featured Race
A pancake-flat course made for chasing a PR — and a Boston Qualifier.
Boston Qualifier: Yes