Marine Corps Marathon
The Marine Corps Marathon (MCM), known as "The People's Marathon," is one of the largest marathons globally that doesn't offer prize money. Established in 1976, its mission is to promote physical fitness, generate community goodwill, and showcase the organizational skills of the United States Marine Corps. The race typically takes place on the final Sunday in October, guiding runners through a scenic course that starts in Arlington, Virginia, and winds through Washington, D.C., passing numerous national landmarks before concluding at the Marine Corps War Memorial. The event is renowned for its impeccable organization and is often considered an excellent marathon for beginners.
Elevation Details
- Total Elevation Gain:240
Notable Landmarks
- Lincoln Memorial: Around mile 10, runners pass by the back of this monumental tribute to the 16th U.S. president.
- National Mall: Between miles 16 and 20, the course traverses the National Mall, offering views of landmarks such as the Washington Monument, National World War II Memorial, and the U.S. Capitol.
- 14th Street Bridge: At mile 20, runners face the "Beat the Bridge" challenge, crossing the Potomac River via this bridge back into Virginia.
- Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial): The race concludes uphill at this iconic statue honoring Marines who have died in service. .COM
Location Details
Other Race Distances
Estimated Hotel Cost
350 USD per night
Special Hotel Rates Available
View Special Hotel RatesRace Requirements
Required Documents
Registration Confirmation: After successfully registering for the race, you'll receive a confirmation email.
E-Card: Prior to the event, an E-Card will be emailed to you. This card serves as your official participant identification.
Packet Pick-Up: To collect your race bib and event materials, present your E-Card (either printed or on a mobile device) at the designated Packet Pick-Up location.
Ensure you also have a valid photo ID with you.
If you're unable to attend in person, a proxy can retrieve your packet by providing: A hard copy of your signed E-Card, A copy of your photo ID, The proxy's own photo ID.
Entry Methods
General Registration: Opens on April 7, 2025, at 11 a.m. EST. Early Bird pricing is available during the first week, with the entry fee set at $220. After April 14, 2025, the Standard Rate of $240 applies. Active duty military personnel are eligible for a discounted rate of $176 throughout the registration period.
MCM Four Star Packages: These comprehensive bundles include guaranteed race entry, hotel accommodations at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, transportation, and more. Packages cater to varying lengths of stay and can accommodate one or two runners. All packages ensure a guaranteed MCM entry.
Charity Partners: Runners can secure guaranteed entry by partnering with one of the MCM's affiliated charities. This involves fundraising for the chosen organization in exchange for marathon entry. Details about charity partners and their registration processes are available on the official MCM website.
MCM Runners Club: Individuals who have completed the MCM five or more times are eligible to join the MCM Runners Club, granting them guaranteed annual access to marathon registration. The application process for the Runners Club will reopen in February 2025.
Active Duty and Reserve Military Registration: A limited number of discounted entries are available exclusively for active duty and reserve military members. Registration for this category opens on April 7, 2025, at 11 a.m. EST.
Transfers and Deferments: Registered runners who are unable to participate may transfer their entry to another individual or defer their registration to the following year. Specific guidelines and fees apply, and participants are encouraged to review the official MCM website for detailed information.
Refundable Registration: During the registration process, participants can opt for a refundable registration by paying an additional service fee of 14% of the total purchase (excluding processing fees). This option allows for a 100% refund of the registration fee, minus the service fee, if certain covered circumstances prevent participation. It's important to note that this must be selected at the time of registration; it cannot be added retroactively.
Standard Registration: If the refundable registration option is not selected during sign-up, all registration fees and associated purchases are non-refundable. Participants are encouraged to consider this when registering, especially if there's uncertainty about their ability to attend.
Transfers: Recognizing that plans can change, the MCM offers a transfer program. Registered participants who can no longer attend have the option to transfer their entry to another individual. This process involves a transfer fee and must be completed within the designated transfer period.
Deferrals: Participants may defer their registration to the following year if they're unable to participate. This option requires payment of a deferral fee and must be processed within the specified timeframe. It's important to note that a deferred entry can only be carried over for one year and cannot be deferred again.
The distance of this race is actually a little more than a Marathon, around 43 KM or 26.6 Miles.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the race.
An ultramarathon covering 50 kilometers (31.07 miles), offering runners an opportunity to challenge themselves beyond the traditional marathon distance.
There's also a children's 1 miler available on the same weekend.
Semper Fidelis Challenge: Participants complete both the Marine Corps Historic Half in May and the MCM in October, earning a unique challenge medal.
- General Entry240 USD
- Early Bird 220 USD
- Registration Opens2025-04-07