The National Marathon and Half Marathon announced today that all 26.2 miles of the route will be in the District of Columbia. After a successful inaugural race in 2006, revisions were made to alleviate traffic congestion in Prince George's County and reward the District with a marathon they can call their own.

"The National Marathon is an exciting new tradition in our city and I was proud to be the official starter during the inaugural race earlier this year," said Mayor Anthony A. Williams. "The marathon generates excitement and is an appropriate part of the city's athletic diversity, adding to the overall quality of life. With the new race course running entirely within the city's borders, we will be able to showcase our neighborhoods to thousands of runners from across the country."

The route, which retains its start and finish area at RFK, will feature the traditional iconic depth of DC mixed with the traditional and emerging neighborhoods such as Adams Morgan and the H Street Corridor.

"Lots of races cover the Mall and the monuments, but I wanted a course that highlights the different sides of DC," said race director and former elite marathoner, Keith Dowling. "Our runners gave us great feedback last year and we listened."

With more and more people moving back into the District and with the recent flurry of development along the Anacostia Waterfront, the National Marathon looks to be a gateway for all the amenities that Washington, DC has to offer. "I think we are ahead of the curve," said Greater Washington Sports Alliance president, Bob Sweeney. "Our course represents a path to DC's past and a road to its future."

Quick Facts:

2nd annual event to be held on Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 7:00 
a.m.

Marathon and Half Marathon is capped at 5000 total participants. 


Produced by the Greater Washington Sports Alliance. 

Race features a multi-division Team Challenge that includes head-
to-head competition between running clubs, open teams, and a 
battle between Police Officers and Fire/EMSemployees.

For more information, or to register for the National Marathon.