Tucson Marathon
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Event Overview
The Tucson Marathon is a long-standing road racing event in Arizona, held annually since 1969. The event features point-to-point courses that highlight the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains and the Sonoran Desert. The routes are primarily paved and known for a net downhill profile, making the marathon a USATF Certified course and a Boston Marathon Qualifier.
Course Details
The races transition from serene desert landscapes near Oracle to a more urban atmosphere as they approach the outskirts of Tucson and Oro Valley. Participants pass landmarks such as the Biosphere 2 and travel along the Cañada del Oro River Park Bike Path.
Available distances include:
- 50K Ultra: A 31.6 mile course starting at Biosphere 2 with a significant net downhill of 1,942 feet.
- Marathon: A 26.2 mile race from Biosphere 2 to Pima Community College with a net downhill of 1,493 feet.
- Half Marathon: A 13.1 mile course starting in Catalina at the Golder Ranch Fire Administration.
- Marathon Relay: A four-leg team event following the full marathon route with exchange points at Oracle Junction, Coronado K-8 School, and Steam Pump Ranch.
- Wheelchair Half Marathon: A dedicated division starting at the Golder Ranch Fire Administration.
Amenities and Logistics
The event provides several support services for participants. Aid stations are situated along all courses, offering water, sports drinks, gels, and various snacks such as bananas, bagels, and oranges. Official pacing teams are available for specific time goals in the marathon and half marathon distances.
Shuttle services are organized to transport participants from designated parking areas in Oro Valley and the host hotel to the various start lines. A race expo and packet pickup are held in both Phoenix and Tucson in the days leading up to the event. All finishers receive a commemorative medal, and age group awards are provided for top performers in multiple brackets. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
