The Marathon Project will return in 2025 as an annual race, bringing together elite athletes and amateur runners for a premier weekend of competition. Scheduled for December 20 and 21st, 2025, at Wild Horse Pass Resort in Chandler, Arizona, the race will take place on the same flat, criterium-style course used in the 2020 event—a course that proved ideal for fast times and exciting performances.

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A Historic 2020 Debut

When The Marathon Project was launched in December 2020, it was conceived as a unique opportunity for elite marathoners after the cancellation of many major races due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event gave athletes a chance to race at the highest level when many of the World Marathon Majors had been called off. The 2020 race produced some of the fastest marathon performances in U.S. history.

On the women’s side, Sara Hall ran the second-fastest marathon by an American woman at the time, clocking 2:20:32, while 12 women finished under 2:30. For the men, seven U.S. runners broke 2:10, with Marty Hehir leading the pack at 2:08:59. The 2020 event marked a milestone in U.S. marathon running and set the stage for the race’s future success.

Gold Wave Marathon for Amateurs

The 2025 event will feature the Gold Wave Marathon, a premier race for top amateur runners. Open to the top 500 men and top 500 women who qualify, the Gold Wave will offer an elite race-day experience, complete with professional-grade amenities. Runners will have access to pacers, an indoor warm-up area, bag drop-off, and fluid stations throughout the 4.26-mile loop course.

The goal is to give amateur athletes the chance to compete in a race with the same conditions and support typically reserved for professionals, elevating the experience for all participants.

A Fast Course for Fast Times

The 2025 Marathon Project will again use the same criterium-style course that proved ideal for fast times in 2020. The 4.26-mile loop ensures consistent pacing and minimal wind interference, creating optimal conditions for both elite and amateur athletes to push their limits. With its flat layout and frequent split checks, the course is designed for runners aiming for personal bests, making it a perfect venue for top performances.

Ben Rosario’s Vision for a New Era in Running

Ben Rosario, the founder of The Marathon Project, sees the event’s return as part of a new era in American distance running. Reflecting on the timing of the race, he said, "If you look at the history of marathons [and road races], there’s essentially been two big booms—the 70s and then the early 2000s. And I believe that now is a great time for an event like this to launch in what I believe is the third boom."

Rosario believes the 2025 Marathon Project will build on the growing momentum of U.S. distance running, where American marathoners are achieving breakthrough performances on the world stage, and participation in the sport continues to rise.

A Weekend Celebration of Running

In addition to the Gold Wave Marathon, The Marathon Project 2025 will feature a full weekend of events and activities, bringing together runners, coaches, fans, and sponsors for a celebration of the sport. This community-focused atmosphere will create opportunities for networking and interaction, making the event a hub for the broader running community.

Looking Ahead

With its return in 2025, The Marathon Project is poised to become a highlight of the U.S. marathon calendar. Whether you're an elite athlete aiming for a fast time or an amateur runner seeking a world-class race experience, the event promises to offer something special for all participants. As the race grows into an annual tradition, it will continue to play a key role in the evolution of American marathon running.

Registration is now open! https://runsignup.com/Race/Register/?raceId=99673

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