Richmond Marathon

RichmondVirginiaUnited States

Next race

Saturday, 14 November 2026

8:00 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Urban road

Elevation

Net downhill · 208 m gain

208 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Richmond Marathon draws approximately 4,000 finishers on an urban road in Richmond, United States. The course starts and finishes at the Richmond Coliseum. The route follows the James River Park System and passes historic Monument Avenue. Very flat with riverside trails.

Richmond Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Typical participants: Approximately 4,000 finishers

Weather: Cool to mild and humid autumn
6–13°C · humidity 60–80%
Marathon weather guide →

Course records: Men: 2:13:45 — Kennedy Kemei (2011)Women: 2:31:25 — Irina Suvorova (2000)

Course & terrain

Richmond Marathon course

Route map and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Richmond Marathon is a river-city loop starting and finishing at the Richmond Coliseum area, following the James River Park System and passing historic Monument Avenue. The park trails and flatter downtown sections are the easiest to run smoothly, while the subtle rollers on Monument Avenue and the transitions between river trails and city streets are tougher. Spectator support is strongest near the coliseum, along Monument Avenue, and at organised points beside the James River.

Richmond Marathon route map

Registration

Richmond Marathon entry requirements

For the Richmond Marathon, yes. Richmond is widely regarded as one of the best BQ courses on the East Coast. The flat profile, net downhill of about 39 metres, and typically cool mid-November temperatures — usually 4–12 °C — consistently produce fast finishing times across all age groups.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Richmond Marathon elevation profile?: The Richmond Marathon has 208 metres of total climbing and 247 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is net downhill, with 39 metres of net descent from start to finish.
Where can I find the Richmond Marathon route map?: This page includes a Richmond Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. Follows the James River Park System and passes historic Monument Avenue.
How long is the Richmond Marathon?: The Richmond Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes at the Richmond Coliseum.
What time does the Richmond Marathon start?: The 2026 Richmond Marathon starts at 8:00 am local time on Saturday, 14 November 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Why is the Richmond Marathon known as 'America's Friendliest Marathon'?: Richmond has earned that nickname through its exceptional crowd support — locals famously line the streets throughout the course and in neighbourhoods like The Fan and Church Hill, creating an enthusiastic atmosphere that carries runners through the later miles.
Is the Richmond Marathon a fast Boston Qualifier course?: Yes. Richmond is widely regarded as one of the best BQ courses on the East Coast. The flat profile, net downhill of about 39 metres, and typically cool mid-November temperatures — usually 4–12 °C — consistently produce fast finishing times across all age groups.
Does the Richmond Marathon course pass historic landmarks?: Yes. The course winds past the Virginia State Capitol, Monument Avenue (one of America's most architecturally celebrated boulevards), and the historic Church Hill neighbourhood, giving runners a genuine tour of Virginia's storied capital city.
When is the Richmond Marathon held?: The Richmond Marathon is held in mid-November, typically the second Saturday of the month, placing it within ideal fall running conditions and making it a popular late-season BQ target before the winter training break.
How flat is the Richmond Marathon course?: Richmond's course is very flat with a slight net downhill of about 39 metres over the 42.2 km, and total elevation gain of approximately 208 metres — the rolling hills are modest and well-spread, rather than concentrated into tough climbs, which helps runners maintain consistent pace.

Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

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