Eugene Marathon
The Lowdown
The Eugene Marathon, held in the heart of "TrackTown USA," has grown since its inception into one of the Pacific Northwest’s most beloved spring marathons. Traditionally staged in late April to take advantage of the region’s cool, fast-weather window, the race draws local runners, collegiate athletes from the University of Oregon, and out-of-state competitors seeking a scenic, well-supported road marathon and a strong chance at Boston-qualifying times. The event taps into Eugene’s rich running heritage and community emphasis on the sport, offering a hometown feel alongside efficient race production. The course threads through serene, tree-lined sections of Eugene and the Willamette River corridor, showcasing Alton Baker Park, the riverbank trail system, quiet residential neighborhoods, and stretches of open Willamette Valley landscape and farmland. Runners encounter gently rolling terrain with long, runnable stretches—conditions that make the course popular for time-seekers—while aid stations, energetic volunteer support, and local bands create a lively atmosphere. Post-race festivities typically include a finish-line festival with food, music, and recovery resources set in parkland that highlights the city’s outdoorsy vibe. The Eugene Marathon course is USATF-certified and acknowledged as a Boston Qualifier, making it a popular choice for athletes chasing qualifying standards. The race emphasizes a welcoming, community-focused experience—friendly volunteers, clear course markings, and pacing groups—so participants of a wide range of abilities can enjoy a memorable spring marathon in one of America’s historic running towns.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Medium-sized race
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Good crowd energy
Record-Breaking 2025 Participation with 10,724 Finishers
Apr 27, 2025<cite index="19-4,19-17">The 2025 Eugene Marathon set a participation record with 10,724 finishers across all three race distances, far exceeding the previous year's total of 8,856 runners.</cite> <cite index="3-4,4-5">All distances sold out in both 2024 and 2025, prompting organizers to encourage early registration for 2026.</cite>
USATF Oregon Championships Return for 2026
Nov 7, 2025<cite index="10-1,10-2">The 2026 Eugene Marathon and Half Marathon will serve as the official USATF Oregon championship races for the second consecutive year.</cite> <cite index="10-4">Championship awards will be presented to the top three female and male finishers who are USATF members, in addition to the race's regular awards.</cite>
Men's Marathon Winner Bradley Hodkinson Posts 2:19:44 in 2025
Apr 27, 2025<cite index="19-29">Bradley Hodkinson won the 2025 men's marathon with a time of 2:19:44.</cite> <cite index="19-3,19-5">Ideal weather conditions with overcast skies, little wind, and 48-degree temperatures at the start led to fast times across all divisions.</cite>
Boston Qualifier
This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event. Achieve your qualifying standard here on a verified course.
Hayward Field
The race runs near the iconic University of Oregon track and historic Hayward Field, a focal point for Oregon running culture
Willamette River / Riverfront Park
Runners follow sections along the Willamette River and pass through scenic Riverfront Park
Downtown Eugene / Broadway & 8th Avenue
The course routes through central downtown Eugene, passing shops, restaurants, and the Park Blocks
Alton Baker Park
A long, flat segment along Alton Baker Park offers river views and wide pathways for spectators
Owen Rose Garden
The course goes by the fragrant Owen Rose Garden, a popular local green space near downtown
Autzen Stadium (view from nearby)
The route passes near the University of Oregon's Autzen Stadium, a landmark visible to spectators
Spencer Butte (visible landmark)
While not on the course, runners get views of Spencer Butte, a prominent natural landmark overlooking Eugene
Other distances available during the event weekend:
Eugene, OR, United States
US
Average rate for 3-star accommodations near the start line
Eligibility
- Minimum age 18 on race day (participants under 18 are not eligible for the full marathon)
- Race is USATF-certified and eligible as a Boston Marathon qualifier
- All entrants must complete online registration and sign the event waiver
- Photo ID required to pick up race packet
- Participants must comply with race rules and instructions from race officials and course marshals
- Medical clearance recommended for runners with known health conditions; carry necessary medications
- No unauthorized pace teams or commercial pacing; only approved pacers allowed
- Race organizers reserve the right to deny entry or remove any participant for safety or rule violations
Required Documents
- Photo ID (required for packet pickup and age verification)
- Signed waiver/release (digital or printed)
- Proof of time (for seeded starts or corral placement, if applicable)
- Emergency contact and medical information
- Proof of age (if requested for age-group verification)
Entry Methods
- Online Registration
- Charity Entry
- Tour Operator
- Relay Team Entry
Cancellation & Refund Policy
No refunds under any circumstances
Bib transfers allowed to another person until 14 days before the race for a $25 processing fee
Deferrals to the 2027 race permitted until 30 days before the event for a $20 processing fee
If the race is canceled due to public safety or government order, registrants will receive a 100% credit toward the next year's race or the option of a partial refund (processing fee may apply)
The Eugene Marathon is a Boston Qualifier and typically offers marathon, half-marathon, and relay options with a race expo and packet pickup in downtown Eugene the day before the race.
The mostly flat-to-rolling course passes scenic sections along the Willamette River, through residential neighborhoods and near the University of Oregon campus and Hayward Field, making it popular for fast times and spectators.
Finishers receive a technical shirt and a custom finisher medal, and the post-race area usually includes local food vendors and a beer garden for participants and supporters.
Aid stations are located approximately every 1.5–2 miles with fluids and gels, and awards are given to overall and age-group top finishers; runners are advised to arrive early for parking or use race shuttles to the start.
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.