Tucson Marathon
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Event Overview
The Tucson Marathon Events take place along the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Arizona. This long-standing event, running since 1969, features several course options that travel through the towns of Oracle, Catalina, and Oro Valley. The primary routes are net downhill, providing participants with a fast descent toward the finish line at Pima Community College Northwest Campus.
Distance Options
Participants can choose from several distances and categories:
- 50K Ultra: A certified course that follows the marathon route with an extension to Ted Walker Park on The Loop bike path.
- Marathon: A USATF certified route starting at Biosphere 2 with a net elevation loss of 1,493 feet. It serves as a Boston Qualifier.
- Half Marathon: A certified course starting at the Golder Ranch Fire Administration Building in Catalina.
- Marathon Relay: A four-person relay covering the full marathon distance, limited to 60 teams.
- Half Marathon Wheelchair: A dedicated wheelchair division following the half marathon course.
Course Details
The marathon and 50K routes begin at the Biosphere 2 facility near Oracle. Runners encounter rolling hills before reaching Oracle Road (SR 77). The path continues through the town of Catalina and Oro Valley, eventually joining the Canada del Oro River Bike Path. The half marathon course joins the second half of this route, utilizing The Loop bike path for the final section. Results for the marathon and half marathon distances are sent to Boston for qualification purposes.
Logistics
Packet pickup is available on the Friday prior to the event in Phoenix and on the Saturday prior at Pima Community College Northwest Campus in Tucson. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
