Last Chance Marathon and Half Marathon
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Last Chance Marathon and Half Marathon
The Last Chance Marathon and Half Marathon takes place in Bellingham, Washington, on the final day of the year. The event provides a final opportunity for runners to complete a long-distance race before the calendar year concludes. The course begins at the Fairhaven Park Pavilion and utilizes the Interurban trail.
The available distances for this event are:
- Marathon (26.2 miles)
- Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
The half marathon is designed as an out and back course, extending to Clayton Beach. Participants in the marathon complete this same out and back loop twice. The route primarily follows an old railroad bed featuring a gravel surface, except for a section in Arroyos Park which consists of a double track trail with bridges. The terrain is mostly flat with some hills. A canopy of trees covers much of the trail, though temperatures may remain low due to the lack of direct sunlight.
Participants are encouraged to be self-sufficient, although aid stations are positioned along the route. For the half marathon, runners pass an aid station approximately every 3 to 3.5 miles, totaling three opportunities for refills. Marathon runners pass these stations seven times. These stations provide water, electrolyte drinks, and snacks such as fruit, pretzels, and candy.
Facilities include a heated pavilion and unlocked bathrooms at the starting area in Fairhaven Park. Post-race food is provided to participants upon completion. All finishers receive a commemorative coin or medal. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
