Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon is a beloved Virginia Beach tradition, drawing approximately 4,200 finishers each March along the Atlantic Ocean boardwalk. The out-and-back course follows the Virginia Beach oceanfront past the Neptune statue, the Fishing Pier, and the resort strip with flat coastal pavement throughout. March's cool Atlantic coast weather and post-race Shamrock party make it a classic East Coast spring marathon.
Yuengling Shamrock Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
The next Yuengling Shamrock Marathon is scheduled for Saturday, 20 March 2027 with a 7:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 50 m of climbing on a very flat layout.
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon is a scenic coastal road that starts and finishes at the Virginia Beach oceanfront near 31st Street. The out-and-back route follows Atlantic Avenue and the boardwalk along the oceanfront to the turn point near Fort Story and returns. The flat profile keeps rhythm steady throughout, with only minor bridge ramps or short rises interrupting otherwise even pacing. Spectators gather along the waterfront, at the start-finish festival, and at organised cheer stations on the most scenic coastal stretches.
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon course is very flat over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 50 metres of climbing and 50 metres of descent, with minimal net elevation change from start to finish.
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon uses open registration at shamrockmarathon.com with no ballot or qualifying time, but the March race sells out reliably each year — often within days of opening. Sign-up typically begins in May of the previous year. Charity bibs are available through official partner organisations for runners who miss the general entry window.
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
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