The Early Years
2007Established in 2007, the Marine Corps Half Marathon is now 19 years old. From its first edition in Washington, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in United States.
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Course & Elevation
The Marine Corps Half Marathon starts at the Iwo Jima Memorial and winds through historic Washington DC, passing iconic landmarks including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Capitol Building before finishing at the Marine Corps War Memorial. The course is predominantly flat with scenic views along the Potomac River and through national parks, making it an ideal race for runners of all levels.
Surface: road Profile: Flat
Weather
Typical climate for the race month — an estimate, not a forecast or a race-day record
Temperature 16°C
Humidity 65%
Rain Chance 25%
Mild autumn weather with comfortable temperatures perfect for racing. Occasional clouds with low wind, generally favorable conditions for fast times.
Related Guides
The Race
Washington
Race Lore
The Fast Lane
Runners come to the Marine Corps Half Marathon for one reason: personal bests. The flat, fast course through Washington has a reputation as a PB factory, with the roads seemingly designed to keep your pace honest and your splits consistent from start to finish.
The Crowd Energy
With 25,000 finishers and spectators lining the course deep, the Marine Corps Half Marathon generates an atmosphere that carries runners through the hard miles. The crowd support in Washington is not polite applause — it's visceral, personal, and often the difference between hitting the wall and breaking through it.
Where It Begins
For thousands of runners each year, the Marine Corps Half Marathon is their first half marathon. The combination of a forgiving course, generous time limits, and supportive crowds has earned this race a reputation as the place where marathon journeys begin. The first-timer energy on race morning is palpable.
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Registration
Registration Opens April
Registration Closes September
Entry Cost $100-$135 USD
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Official Website →
Fun Facts
- ▸ The Marine Corps Half Marathon starts and finishes at the iconic Iwo Jima Memorial, honoring the brave Marines depicted in the famous photograph.
- ▸ Over 25,000 runners from around the world participate annually, making it one of the largest half marathons on the East Coast.
- ▸ The race passes all three branches of the National Mall—the Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, and Washington Monument—in one scenic tour of American history.
- ▸ All participants receive a commemorative finisher's medal designed by the Marine Corps, and the race has a strict lottery system due to overwhelming demand.
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