The Road Runner Akron Marathon course is a rolling, scenic tour of some of Akron’s most beautiful destinations. Our course winds through diverse neighborhoods, city highlights and historical landmarks throughout Akron. Other than the four miles on the Towpath trail, which is a crushed limestone surface, the majority of the race is run on paved asphalt and concrete streets.
The course is a certified USATF sanctioned course #2219 and your time may be used as a qualifier for the Boston Marathon. To view Boston Marathon Qualifying Times, visit: http://www.baa.org/BostonMarathon/Qualifying.asp
The Road Runner Akron Marathon course is officially open for six hours, equivalent to approximately 13:41 per mile pace. Runners slower than this pace will be asked to move to the sidewalk. The finish line, aid stations and fluid stations will remain open for a six-hour pace and close on schedule.
Course Support
Mile Markers & Clocks
Mile Markers and clocks will be highly visible at each mile to assist runners in gauging their progress. Kilometer markers are located every 5K, from 5K - 40K will also be placed on the race course.
Medical Aid Stations
There will be 14 aid stations available to runners throughout the race course. Additionally, there will be an aid tent at the start and finish lines. Summa Health System will provide all medical assistance during this event. For your safety, it is important to print any specific medical needs on the reverse side of your race bib. Medical stations will be equipped to assist runners with any basic medical needs and will also have a supply of band-aids, Vaseline and bandages if needed. For medical emergencies, an ambulance will be called to transport the runner to a local hospital. Ham operators will be available approximately every half mile if you need to alert someone that you need immediate medical assistance while on the course.
Fluid Stations
There will be 18 fluid stations throughout the race course supplying PowerAde and non-carbonated, Dasani water to runners. Additionally, there will be a fluid station at the start and finish lines.
GU Energy Gel
Energy Gel will be provided at water stations located at the start, 6.23, 11.2, 15.75, 19.2 and 23.3 mile points.
Restroom Facilities
175 men/woman identified portable restrooms equipped with Purell hand cleaner at 19 locations throughout the course, including the start and finish lines and relay exchange points.
Course Entertainment
The entire Akron community has been invited to cheer runners along the course. There will be course entertainment throughout the 26.2 mile race course. Watch for live bands, pep bands, cheerleaders and exciting themed water stations.