Flying Pig Marathon
The Lowdown
The Flying Pig Marathon Weekend has grown into one of the Midwest’s most beloved spring races since its inception in 1999, drawing a mix of first-time marathoners, seasoned road racers and weekend warriors. Celebrated for its playful “flying pig” spirit and community support, the event is a Cincinnati tradition that showcases the city’s neighborhoods, music scene and Midwestern hospitality. Over the years the race has remained a key destination for runners seeking a lively race-day atmosphere and a reliable Boston Marathon qualifying course. The course threads through Cincinnati’s most scenic and characterful areas — starting and finishing in the downtown riverfront district, runners pass along the Ohio River, cross iconic bridges, and run through historic neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine, Mount Adams and Eden Park. Expect a mix of flat riverfront sections ideal for fast splits and a few challenging but rewarding hills that reveal sweeping skyline and river views. Aid stations, local bands and enthusiastic neighborhood volunteers create a festive, energetic atmosphere that keeps spirits high from start to finish. Runners can expect excellent race-day organization, strong crowd support, and a finish line festival with local food and music. The course is USATF-certified and listed as a Boston Marathon qualifying course, making it a popular choice for athletes chasing qualifying times as well as those looking for a memorable marathon experience in a supportive, fun environment.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Large field
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Legendary crowd support
This race qualifies for the Boston Marathon
Race Weekend
Other distances available
Notable Landmarks
Sawyer Point & Yeatman's Cove
The race starts and finishes along the scenic Ohio Riverfront park with views of the river and downtown skyline
John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge
Historic suspension bridge crossed by runners to and from Covington, offering iconic city-to-city views
Fountain Square
Central downtown plaza and lively spectator zone near the heart of Cincinnati
Findlay Market
Cincinnati’s historic public market in Over-the-Rhine that provides a vibrant neighborhood backdrop for the course
Great American Ball Park
Runners pass by the home of the Cincinnati Reds along the riverfront
Eden Park & Krohn Conservatory
Elevated park area with gardens and sweeping views of the city, contributing a scenic stretch of the course
Over-the-Rhine (OTR)
Architecturally rich neighborhood featuring brick-lined streets and cheering crowds near the mid-course
Cincinnati, OH, United States
US
Based on nearby accommodations
The race offers a booking portal with partner hotel options
- Must be 18 years of age or older on race day (May 3, 2026) to register for the full marathon
- All participants must complete an online race waiver prior to packet pickup or race day
- No qualifying time is required to enter the Flying Pig Marathon
- Runners must be in good health and able to complete the course within the official time limit (7 hours)
- Participants are expected to follow race rules and instructions from race officials and course marshals
- No wheeled devices (strollers, bicycles, scooters) are permitted in the marathon unless approved by race management for medical or assistance reasons
- Proof of identity and age may be required at packet pickup
- Medical clearance is recommended for runners with pre-existing conditions; emergency medical services will be available on course
- Government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
- Printed or digital race registration confirmation
- Signed race waiver (electronic or printed)
- Proof of age for age-group verification (if requested)
- Signed authorization and copy of runner's ID if picking up packet for another person
- Online Registration
- Charity Entry
- Tour Operator
- On-site/Late Registration
- Group/Team Registration
Cancellation & Refunds
Policy details
Registrations are non-refundable (no refunds)
Bib transfers to another participant are not permitted
Deferral to the following year (2027) allowed for a $25 administrative fee if requested by March 1, 2026
If the in-person race is canceled for reasons beyond the organizers' control, registrants will be offered either a credit toward a future Flying Pig event or the option to participate in a virtual race
The race finishes along the scenic Ohio River at Sawyer Point/Yeatman's Cove with great skyline views of Cincinnati.
Finishers receive a custom finisher medal and a technical long-sleeve shirt, and there is a large post-race festival with food vendors and a beer garden.
The Flying Pig weekend includes a race expo, a Saturday pasta dinner, and multiple events such as the Five-Oh, Half Marathon, and kids' piglet races to keep the whole family entertained.
Runners should be prepared for several notable hills in the first half around Mount Adams and Eden Park; aid stations are frequent (approximately every 1.5–2 miles) and stocked with water, Gatorade, and gels.
Parking near downtown fills early—organizers recommend using public transit, park-and-ride lots, or arriving very early to allow time for bag check and pre-race logistics.
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.