Virginia is home to eight U.S. presidents and has been nick-named “Mother of Presidents.” In 2007, Virginia marked its 400th anniversary of the establishment of the Jamestown Colony. Come enjoy the colonial history and sites of Virginia while running in one of its top marathons.
Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon-Roanoke
The Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon takes pride in being America’s toughest road race. It is incredibly challenging as runners will experience 7,430 feet in elevation change. This marathon takes place along the Blue Ridge Parkway. This race is USATF Certified and will be one of the most challenging road races you will every run.
The Course
The Blue Ridge Marathon starts off fairly easy with one mile of rolling hills. After that, runners will climb up Mill Mountain for two miles. Once runners reach the top of the first hill, runners will struggle up two more hills in the next two miles. There are lots of hills, but there are also plenty of well stocked aid stations through out the race. If you choose to run this marathon, do not expect a P.R., this race hasn’t been deemed “America’s toughest road marathon” for nothing. Register for the race here.
Credit: BlueRidgeMarathon
Reviews
“I absolutely loved this marathon – it was #42 for me, and ranks in my top 5. Yes, it probably is America’s Toughest Road marathon, but the amazing views were well worth it. Super friendly volunteers and spectators, and so many little touches that made it unique. Like a trumpet sounding when we got to the top of Roanoke Mt, and champagne and chocolates at the top of the hardest climb (Peakwood, at mile 18). I also appreciated getting stretched out by a chiropractor for free at the finish line festival. These people take care of their runners. For most mere mortals, Blue Ridge isn’t a marathon to run for time. The hills will beat you up, especially the downhills. But it was heaps of fun. I’ll be back.”-T.S., Marathonguide.com
“Without a doubt the best all around race, From the expo to the entertainment on Friday – Saturday night. The amount of detail put into race weekend is by far the best I’ve seen. Race day went off like they have done it a hundred times. The course lived up to it name as it keep you climbing or flying down. The course was so supported by not only the organizer but the locals went above and beyond. I can’t wait for 2017. Thank You!” -T.D., Marathonguide.com
Virginia Creeper Marathon-Abingdon
If you are looking to run a marathon on the cheap you should definitely give the Virginia Creeper Marathon a try. The entry for this marathon is only $15! Given this fact, don’t expect the all the frills and goodies that come along with some of the bigger races. If you are interested in running this race, it’s best to sign up now. At times, the race directors have limited the race to 100 participants and these spots usually fill up six months before the race takes place. Get registered here.
The Course
Many runners have described this course as relatively flat with only 495 feet of total gain. Runners will cross the start/finish line four times, since there are several different out and backs on this course. Aid stations have only basic amenities, (water, Gatorade, crackers, nuts) but they are well stocked. If you need fancier energy supplies, you’ll have to bring your own. This course is USATF Certified, and will give you a great chance to set a new P.R.
Credit: MapMyRun
Reviews
“It is a low profile, low key marathon but it is a great course to create PR. It feels fairly flat except for first 2 miles of rolling hills, although some very gradual incline and decline are present. It is a trail marathon. So you don’t have to run on asphalt for 26.2 miles. Arranged very well with fruits and home made cookies for nutrition. Considering entry fees is probably the cheapest for any marathon race, amenities are great. Crowd consists of families of runners. Good thing is that they can see you four times before finish by staying close to start & finish line. Obviously there are no Gu every gels but anyone who is used of that kind of nutrition can always carry some with them or keep them close to start/ finish line, which is crossed four times during the run. I wish there are more races like this. I am going to run it again next year.”-D.S-Marathonguide.com
“What a gorgeous race, and incredible organization. Volunteers are completely dedicated, you have to be standing in 18-degree-temperatures without moving… Virginia mountains and perfect air are real treats; as well as the fun and friendly atmosphere. Beautiful valley-crossing bridges! Bring your camera and your smile for this exemplary setup and extraordinary volunteers…Did I mention that the entry fee was $10? The course is certified, and some $100+ races should really look up to Frank for his organization and team spirit…I will definitely invite folks and come back.”-D.L.-Marathonguide.com
Anthem Richmond Marathon-Richmond
The Anthem Richmond Marathon is nicknamed “America’s Friendliest Marathon” and was named one of the top 15 fall marathons in the U.S. While running this course, you can expect to see some of Richmond’s historic and scenic neighborhoods that line the James River. Along the course, you will find live bands, DJs, and Party Zones that will help keep your momentum up as you propel your way to the finish line–where, by the way, you can kick back and relax with pizza and cold beverages. Sign up to here.
The Course
Along the course, there are water stops every two miles until mile 20. After mile 20, the water stops appear every one mile. Gels are available at miles 14 and 21 and there are two junk food stops at miles 16 and 22. This course is flat for the most part, but does feature a couple of troublesome hills, particularly at miles 6 and 16. It’s a good course to set a PR and is also a Boston Qualifier.
Credit: MapMyRun
Reviews
“The sportsbackers did an amazing job of being on the course cheering runners on in creative and quirky outfits! Although there were stretches of the race without crowd support, the people who were out on the course (on a very cold day) were genuine and extremely friendly and motivating. Running along the James River was a highlight. For an affordable race you get a lot of great things- a blanket, a hat, premium and beautiful medal. Host hotel and expo went above and beyond my expectations. There was some sort of technical glitch with runner tracking which was disappointing for our families, but everything else went off without a hitch. The downhill at the end is AMAZING, but there are segments of the race that are deceiving (miles15-18 were rough!)I would run this race again and I would recommend it for first time marathoners as well. Great experience!”-D.S., Marathonguide.com
“Wow! So happy I chose to run this race! Race expo was easy to get in and get out of. The course tour in the charter bus was first class. Easy parking at the race start. Great course with water stops almost every mile. Amazing downhill finish. Decent food after the race. Easy to get back to the car post race. Ran my first sub-3 hour marathon on this course and could not be happier with the overall experience of this race!!”-P.C., Marathonguide.com
Marine Corps Marathon-Washington, D.C.
Runners from all 50 states have participated in what has been called “the best marathon in the mid-Atlantic,” “the best marathon for families,” and “the best marathon for beginners.” The goal of the Marine Corps Marathon is to promote physical fitness and to spread general goodwill throughout the community. Find out more on their website.
The Course
This is a great course and also a Boston Qualifying event. The first 10 miles of the course have some healthy up hill stretches. While the hills are long, they are not steep, so training on a slight uphill grade will be prudent. The next 10 miles are pretty tame. The last 6 miles does feature a couple hills so make sure to save some gas for the end. Water and food stations are spaced around 2 mile intervals, so plan ahead.
Credit: MapMyRun
Reviews
“Fourth Marine Corps and always a great experience. Enjoyed the Blue Mile with runners saluting and hugging spectators. Support on the course is always exemplary as is the finish. Brief delay at a metal detector which was solved by a Marine who stepped up and got us through quickly. Easy access to course for my family to cheer and met me at the finish. I recommend the Marine Corps Marathon as a once in a lifetime experience. For me, I will definitely run it a fifth time.”-John Shatto, Marathonguide.com
“This is definitely a bucket list race, I can only add to the glowing reviews for this event. The course is magnificent, it would have been nice to have been able to run right by the monuments but I guess they can’t close those areas off for the length of time necessary to run the race. I have seen complaints about the hill at the very end of the race, but with Marines lining that hill and cheering me on I hardly noticed it. This event is well worth the trip, I highly encourage everyone who loves to run to make this one.”-S.B., Marathonguide.com