Marine Corps Marathon, The Peoples Marathon
"Shuffle, Shuffle, Shuffle, Marine Corps Shuffle." I'm on a run, just for fun! 26.2! Fun run!
The Marine Corps Marathon, also known as "The Peoples Marathon" was created in 1976 as a goodwill marketing effort by the USMC during an unpopular time for the military.
Its appeal is broad, attracting military runners, first time runners, and those running for a cause. In fact Oprah shuffled 26.2 back in 1994.
2007 was the 32nd running of the Marine Corps Marathon with over 30,000 runners.
I highly recommend this marathon for the first time runner or the experienced runner. It is truly a gem.
Although the course has changed from year to year, you are sure to pass numerous monuments and thousands of Marines serving water and Gatorade.
One of my favorite aspects of running the 2007 MCM is the touching tributes many of the runners placed on the back of their t-shirts honoring fallen heroes in Iraq.
Being a former Marine, I am very touched by pain many of the participants endured to honor their fallen family members.
Marine Corps Marathon Facts
Oorah!
- 4th Largest U.S. Marathon- More first time runners than the NYC Marathon 1175 vs. 123
- 5 Runners Known as the Groundpounders have completed every MCM
- 2 Current Presidential Candidates have run the MCM (Mike Huckabee & John Edwards)
- Vice President Al Gore has run the MCM
- Yours truly Coachbriany completed the MCM in 2007
Logistic Tips
A things I learned in 2007
Although, I did not walk to the starting line, I could have. My hotel in Arlington, the Hilton Garden Inn was under 2 miles from the starting line and about 3/4 a mile from the finish.
As I mentioned I did not walk to the starting line but took the subway. This was a fun experience but some things to keep in mind. Thousands of runners and spectators will be going to the same place so leave early. I left 90 minutes before race start time and the trains were packed. My wife and I had to practically squeeze ourselves on the train to ensure we made it to the starting line on time.
Another factor to keep in mind is when you get off the subway at the recommended station, they route you around nearly 1 mile to the starting line.
So, as with all things in life leave early and reduce stress.,
Finish Line Tips:
So your fans can enjoy the race be sure you register your race number to send out text messages when you cross checkpoints. Since I was not in great shape for this past marathon, I did not have a good estimate of my finish time. This made it hard for my wife to plan when to arrive at the finish line and family meet up areas.
Marine Corps Marathon Links
- Official Marine Corps Marathon Website
- Sign up for 26.2 now, the marathon sells out quickly once registration opens.
- Official site of USMC
- Join "The Few, The Proud"
- Marine Corps Museum
- This is a must see destination. Located in Quantico Virginia, be sure to save at least a day to truly enjoy this riveting museum.
- USMC Bootcamp Website
- Alright you maggot click this link to learn more about USMC Bootcamp.
Where to Stay for the Marine Corps Marathon
I recommend staying in Arlington
Marine Corps Clips
Tell us your MCM story!
Was it your first?
Did you run to honor a fallen hero, tell us about your experience.
Fetching blurbs now... please stand by
