42.195 km
Distance
1,400 m
Elevation Gain
5:45:00
Average Finish Time
2,800
Total Finishers
1999
Established
Mountainous
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Course & Elevation
This iconic marathon takes runners along sections of the Great Wall of China north of Beijing, starting in the mountainous Huailai District and finishing near Tianjin. The course is characterized by steep climbs and descents as it follows the ancient wall's ridgeline, offering breathtaking views of one of the world's most recognizable monuments. Runners experience challenging terrain with significant elevation changes, making it one of Asia's most demanding marathons.
🌤️ Weather
Late spring conditions with mild temperatures and occasional rain. Morning starts can be cool at higher elevations, warming through the afternoon. Runners should prepare for rapidly changing conditions on exposed wall sections.
🏆 Course Record
03:48:34
Liu Hongzhuo (2015)
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🎯 Fun Facts
- ▸ The marathon follows actual sections of the Great Wall of China, making it one of the most historically significant races in the world
- ▸ With 1,400 meters of elevation gain spread over a mountainous point-to-point course, it ranks among the most physically demanding marathons globally
- ▸ The race draws international participants from over 65 countries, with nearly half the field traveling from outside China
- ▸ Established in 1999, the Great Wall Marathon is one of Asia's oldest and most prestigious marathons, predating many modern marathon booms
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