You are here:
Yuengling Shamrock Marathon
Race Details:
- Location: Virginia Beach, VA, USA
- Race Date: 03/21/2027
- Race Distances: Full Marathon, Half Marathon
What This Race Counts Toward:
Boston: Yes
World Marathon Majors: Yes
Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Description
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon is held each March along the oceanfront in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The course is roughly 90 percent flat, with a semi-out-and-back section that crosses a distinctive bridge near miles 17 and 23, making it a popular Boston qualifying race. Marathon, half marathon, and shorter distances finish together on the beach, drawing large fields for a fast course and a festive Irish-themed finish.
Always check the official race website for the most accurate and up-to-date race information and logistics.
Share This Race
Shop This Race
Handpicked for runners toeing this line.
Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Additional Details:
Shamrock draws big, energetic crowds along the oceanfront, and the flat, fast course makes it a magnet for runners chasing Boston times as well as first-timers looking for a forgiving marathon debut. Aid stations keep water and Nuun flowing steadily throughout, though some runners note the on-course snack selection is lighter than the drink support. The reward at the finish more than makes up for it: a distinctive bottle-opener finisher medal, a warm blanket, and a full beach party complete with live music, beer, and Irish-themed refreshments. Finishers also walk away with extra swag, including a tote bag, towel, and hat, and the festive, green-clad energy on the sand gives the race a personality distinct from other flat coastal courses.
Course Information
Profile: Very Flat
Type: Mostly Out and Back
Surface: Road/Pavement
Pace Groups: Yes
Time Limit: 7 hours (full), 4 hours (half)
# of Finishers
Half Marathon: 5,500
Marathon: 2,000
Elevation Details
Elevation Gain: Unknown
Elevation Loss: Unknown
Average Temperature
- Low: 43°F
- High: 54°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 Virginia Beach, VA, USA
Make the most of race weekend — here’s how to fill the time before and after you cross the finish line.
Arts & Culture
Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art
Explore rotating exhibits of contemporary art at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), reopened at Virginia Wesleyan University — a relaxed, indoor way to spend a taper day.
Scenic Drives & Viewpoints
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Take in tidal marshes and dune habitats at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a quiet stretch of coastline south of the Virginia Beach oceanfront — a relaxed way to spend a rest day.
Landmark
Mount Trashmore Park
Visit Mount Trashmore Park, a Virginia Beach landmark built atop a former landfill, now home to a lake, skate park, and trails — an easy, low-impact stop after race weekend.
Museums & History
Cape Henry Lighthouse
Climb the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse, dating to 1792, for a look at Virginia Beach’s maritime past — an easy, low-impact stop after race day.
Outdoors & Trails
First Landing State Park
Hike more than 20 miles of trails through cypress swamps, tidal marshes, and maritime forest at First Landing State Park, Virginia’s most-visited state park — an easy option for recovering legs.
Zoos, Aquariums & Gardens
Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
See sea turtles, sharks, and marine life exhibits at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center — a flat, self-paced walk that’s gentle on recovering legs.
Hotels & Lodging Near the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon
Compare nearby hotels and book your Yuengling Shamrock Marathon race-weekend stay in seconds.
Sunrise Running Company may earn a commission if you book through the map below, at no extra cost to you.
Featured Race
A pancake-flat course made for chasing a PR — and a Boston Qualifier.
Boston Qualifier: Yes