Changes to the Course Allow Runners More Time to Beat the Bridge

The Marine Corps Marathon announced today changes to the 2007 marathon course. Due to construction on the Rock Creek Parkway, course adjustments will circle the Georgetown Reservoir and take runners on a scenic tour of the Georgetown Canal. The new course also benefits runners by bringing them to the 14th Street Bridge at mile 19, one mile earlier than in previous years, allowing them more time to "Beat the Bridge."

Similar to 2006, the 2007 USATF certified course starts in Arlington, VA and winds its way through Rosslyn along Lee Highway before turning on Spout Run and the George Washington Memorial Parkway. After crossing the Key Bridge into the District of Columbia, runners take on a new portion of the MCM course when they make a left turn onto Canal Road, heading toward Georgetown University. This new section takes runners up a short climb on Foxhall Road before turning onto MacArthur Boulevard. Then, they will descend from Reservoir Road to Canal Road and head back into Georgetown. From there, runners proceed under the Key Bridge to reach the Whitehurst Freeway and are treated to spectacular views of the Potomac River and the Rosslyn skyline.

"These course changes are sure to give participants a fresh and exciting experience at the MCM," said Rick Nealis, race director.

As participants charge forward, they will find themselves in familiar territory. The course passes the Kennedy Center before entering the National Mall and numerous landmarks such as the Lincoln, World War II, Korean Conflict and Vietnam Veterans Memorials, the Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol. The marathon once again returns to Hains Point and "the Awakening" in East Potomac Park before passing the Jefferson Memorial before reaching the 14th Street Bridge. Runners are required to maintain a 14-minute per mile or faster pace to reach this point by 1:15 p.m. before the bridge reopens to vehicle traffic.

After crossing the 14th Street Bridge and returning to Virginia, runners will follow a familiar stretch of the course into Crystal City and through Crystal Run on Crystal Drive. To finish the race, participants will head up Route 110 toward Rosslyn for a quick turn around before completing the event at the legendary Marine Corps War Memorial Finish Line.

Marine Corps Marathon Web site.