Allianz Richmond Marathon
The Lowdown
The Allianz Richmond Marathon is a long-standing fall favorite on the East Coast, produced by Sports Backers and drawing both competitive and recreational runners to Richmond’s historic streets each November. Over the years the race has grown into a marquee Virginia event, known for its enthusiastic community support, well-organized aid stations, and a finish festival that celebrates runners of every pace. The 2025 edition continues the tradition of showcasing Richmond’s blend of civil war history, vibrant neighborhoods, and riverside greenways. The course weaves through many of Richmond’s most iconic areas: the wide, tree-lined Monument Avenue, the hilltop vistas of Libby Hill and Church Hill, the cobblestones and cultural energy of Shockoe Bottom, and the scenic pathways along the James River and Belle Isle. Runners experience a mix of rolling terrain and flat stretches that reward smart pacing and offer plenty of memorable views. The atmosphere is energetic and community-driven — bands, dance troops, and local volunteers line the route, schools and neighborhood groups cheer, and well-stocked aid stations keep runners comfortable from Mile 1 to the finish. The marathon is USATF-certified and recognized as a Boston Marathon qualifying course, making it an attractive target for runners chasing a fast time or a qualifying standard. Whether you’re chasing a PR, a Boston qualifier, or a joyful fall marathon experience, Allianz Richmond provides a scenic, thoroughly supported race in the heart of Virginia.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Large field
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Legendary crowd support
Boston Qualifier
This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event. Achieve your qualifying standard here on a verified course.
street art
river views
historic architecture
parks
downhill finish
Other distances available during the event weekend:
Richmond, VA, United States
US
Average rate for 3-star accommodations near the start line
Eligibility
- Minimum age 16 on race day
Required Documents
- Photo ID
- Registration email
Entry Methods
- online
- offline on race weekend, limited
Cancellation & Refund Policy
No refunds under any circumstances
Bib transfers to another registered runner allowed until 30 days before the race for a $25 processing fee
Deferral to the 2027 Allianz Richmond Marathon available until 30 days before the race for a $40 fee
Medical deferral allowed with physician documentation up to 14 days before the race (no refund; deferral credited to following year)
The Allianz Richmond Marathon is a USATF-certified, Boston-qualifying course that is popular with runners seeking a fast fall marathon.
The course showcases Richmond’s historic landmarks and neighborhoods, including Monument Avenue, the Virginia State Capitol area, the James River and Canal Walk, and several tree-lined residential districts.
Race weekend features a large runner expo, a kids’ run and multiple distance events (half marathon, 8K) plus a post-race festival with finisher medals, technical shirts, food and a beer garden for participants and spectators.
Practical tips: the race starts at 7:00 AM, downtown parking fills early so plan to arrive well before start, aid stations are approximately every 1.5–2 miles with water and Gatorade, and the course has rolling hills but is generally considered fast and well-supported.
Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
Learn from fellow runners and share insights that will help the next person toe the line.