Lincoln Marathon

4.0

WhereLincoln, NE, United States

Start time09:00

Sub-events

04May

Marathon

Distance: Marathon

Start time: 09:00

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Race Details

SUMMARY. The Lincoln National Guard Marathon and Half-Marathon is run on a citywide course that starts and finishes on the campus of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Runners in both races share a common start and run a loop route past the Nebraska State Capitol, along Sheridan Boulevard, past Union College, along the Highway 2 bike path, past the Lincoln County-City Building and back to the Half-Marathon finish on the UNL Campus. Marathoners then follow an out-and-back route to Holmes Park passing the Sunken Gardens, Folsom Children's Zoo and Antelope Park. The Lincoln Marathon is a premier event that showcases the vibrant community spirit of Lincoln, Nebraska. Known for its enthusiastic spectators, the race features a route that winds through scenic neighborhoods and the University of Nebraska campus. This marathon is a favorite among runners for its excellent organization, from smooth packet pickup to a well-managed wave start. The course is mostly flat with a few rolling hills, making it suitable for both seasoned marathoners and beginners. The first half of the marathon is particularly notable for its lively crowd support, while the second half presents a mental challenge with its out-and-back section. Despite fewer spectators in the latter part, the volunteers and aid stations along the route are well-prepared and supportive, providing essential hydration and energy. Participants can enjoy a variety of amenities, including free parking, well-stocked aid stations, and a unique finisher's medal. The post-race atmosphere is festive, with plenty of refreshments to help runners recover. The Lincoln Marathon is an event where the whole community comes together to create an unforgettable experience for all participants. This race offers a perfect blend of community support, scenic views, and well-thought-out logistics, making it a standout event in the running calendar. Whether aiming for a personal best or simply enjoying the journey, the Lincoln Marathon promises a memorable and rewarding experience.

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Reviews

general:4.3

course:3.9

organization:4.6

spectators:4.2

Race The Nation

March 08, 2022

Well organized state race

This was our first race back post-Covid and we couldn't have chosen a better one. We've found any race that's organized by a running group is typically done very well and this was no exception. This is the longest running marathon in Nebraska and Lincoln is a great city to visit. Unfortunately, they had to cancel the Expo due to Covid. The course provides a nice tour of the city and normally finishes in the Lincoln Memorial Stadium (where the Cornhuskers play) though we finished in the track & field stadium. The half and full run together for entire time until right at the end where anyone doing the full can see and hear the finish line party as you trudge away to do another 13.1! Lincoln has a lot of nice greenways. You run on them some, but there is more street running with coned off traffic. The last half of the marathon is primarily an out and back. The aid stations were very good and well stocked. I'd describe the fan support along the course as strong. The swag included a medal, t-shirt, and marathon themed face mask (let's hope that ends up being a one-time keepsake)! Lincoln is a fun college city. The downtown area around the Historic Haymarket is always hopping, a very fun atmosphere. There are lots of other attractions in the area, the zoo was particularly enjoyable. And we actually escaped from an Escape Room for a change! You can get a good feel of the race, place and taste from our YouTube video at Race The Nation.

5.0

Paul Brown

May 17, 2019

Very pleased with this 26.2 event!

Lincoln is likely not your idea of a destination marathon. Maybe it should be. The course, 1st half was full of positive energy from the city. You even run past Nebraska's unique 14 story state house. The 2nd half was a semi lonely stretch out and back finishing up in Memorial Stadium, home of the Cornhuskers football team. Loved hearing my name and town announced over the loudspeaker as I approached the 50 yard line. CHOCOLATE Milk, fountain Pepsi products, gatorade, were a nice touch right off the field under the bleachers. Medal was great compared to to years ago, mediocre by todays standards, but you don't run a marathon for the medal anyway. Right?

5.0

Denise Carleton

May 08, 2019

Really enjoyed this race!!!

I was worried about the the last half of the race after reading previous comments on this site but must say I was pleasantly surprised! I would have liked a little more shade on the back half but overall I enjoyed the course! Spectators and volunteers were amazing throughout...couldn't have survived the hot day without them. Thank you Lincoln for a wonderful experience!!!