42.195 km
Distance
1,050 m
Elevation Gain
5:15:00
Average Finish Time
2,800
Total Finishers
1999
Established
Mountainous
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Course & Elevation
This legendary marathon follows the historic Great Wall of China from Huangyaguan through mountainous terrain with dramatic ascents and descents along ancient wall sections. Runners experience the iconic guardrail climbs on the wall itself, with sections winding through restored fortifications and steep valley passes. The course is both culturally significant and physically demanding, offering unparalleled views of one of humanity's greatest architectural achievements.
🌤️ Weather
Late spring weather with warm afternoons and cool mornings. May can bring occasional rain, with clear skies offering stunning views of the wall and surrounding mountains. Runners should prepare for variable conditions due to elevation changes.
🏆 Course Record
02:43:19
Luo Jun (2015)
Registration
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🎯 Fun Facts
- ▸ The only marathon where athletes run on the actual Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site built over 2,000 years ago.
- ▸ Established in 1999, it was one of the first marathons to introduce international participants to the Great Wall and has become a bucket-list race for global runners.
- ▸ The course includes the famous Juyongguan Pass, one of the most strategic and heavily fortified sections of the wall, with runners climbing over 1,050 meters in elevation.
- ▸ Approximately 68% of participants are international runners from across the globe, making it one of Asia's most internationally diverse marathons.
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