SUMMARY. All NEW Race Course for 2004 "Takin it to the Streets" of Nassau County. Still Flat and Fast.

Jovia Long Island Marathon is an excellent choice for runners looking to test their endurance and enjoy a well-supported race with a mix of bustling and peaceful segments. The pros include excellent organization, a supportive community, and a flat course that can lead to fast times.

The course, which has seen several changes over the years, begins in the heart of Long Island and winds through various landscapes, including residential neighborhoods and highways. This marathon provides a mix of urban and serene environments, with the first half of the course lined with enthusiastic spectators and the latter part offering solitude on the highway.

The marathon is well-organized, ensuring that runners have access to hydration and fueling stations, although some sections may require participants to bring additional water. Despite a few challenging spots, the overall layout is designed to help runners achieve personal bests, thanks to its relatively flat terrain and minimal elevation changes.

Participants appreciate the sense of community and the supportive atmosphere, although the race can feel psychologically demanding due to stretches with fewer spectators. The race ends with a celebration, where finishers receive unique ribbons as awards and enjoy a festival-like atmosphere with food and entertainment.

LONG ISLAND MARATHON FESTIVAL

Post-Race Review/ Results

Jessica Allen won the 2008 Long island Marathon for the third time in five years in a 2:55:21.  She was runner-up in the other years.  Dan McGrath won the men's race in 2:25:38.

Third win for Hampton Bays woman in LI Marathon

Pre-Race Review/ Lineup

Among the 5,200 runners already signed up to run in the 2008 Festival of Races which includes the Long Island Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K events.  The youngest marathoner will be sixteen year old Chaminade High School sophomore Matthew Saitta, who will be debuting in the marathon distance.

LI Marathon to cap Festival of Races weekend

Human Interest Story

Every runner participating in the 2008 RexCorp Long Island Marathon Festival of Races has a free pass to a clinic held Tuesday, April 29, in the auditorium of the Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library, 999 Old Country Road in Plainview, starting at 8 p.m. Topics include last minute prep for the marathon and the half marathon and how to have a positive experience.

Marathon Summary

Marathon Results