History of the USAF Marathon

The first official marathon was held on September 20, 1997, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Air Force, and is held the third Saturday in September each year in celebration of the U.S. Air Force. 2010 marks the 14th year of the Air Force Marathon and will be held on September 18, 2010, which is the 63rd anniversary to the day of the Air Force.

To commemorate our rich history in flight, each year one aircraft is chosen to be highlighted during the marathon and on the unique finisher's medal presented to each race participant.

In 2010, the USAF Marathon will feature the B-52. For more than 40 years B-52 Stratofortresses have been the backbone of the manned strategic bomber force for the United States.

The course is a 26.2-mile run that traverses historical places on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, including the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the Air Force Institute of Technology, Headquarters Air Force Materiel Command, the Wright-Patterson AFB flight line, Huffman Prairie Flying Field, and the Wright Brothers Memorial Monument.

All levels of runners participate from around the world in the Marathon, wheelchair, half marathon, 10K, and 5K races.

The race has grown over the years to nearly 10,000 participants in 2009.

The USAF Marathon course is certified by the USA Track and Field Association and is a Boston Qualifier.

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Marathon Record Holders - Individual

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