Summary: The course is a 26.2 mile run that traverses historical places on Wright Patterson Air Force Base to include the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the Air Force Institute of Technology, Headquarters Air Force Material Command, the Wright Patterson AFB Flight Line, Huffman Prairie Flying Field and the Wright Brothers Memorial Monument.

The Air Force Marathon, held at an active military base, offers participants a unique blend of athletic challenge and patriotic celebration. Runners describe the event as a powerful experience, marked by the exhilarating roar of helicopters overhead and the motivational sight of aircraft along the course. The opportunity to run under the majestic wings of planes at the finish line is a highlight that leaves an indelible mark on participants' memories.

The marathon is well-known for its well-organized nature, with clear communication from race directors and enthusiastic support from volunteers who help create a motivating atmosphere. The event also features thoughtful touches like a "Blue Mile" to honor fallen service members, adding emotional depth to the race.

The Air Force Marathon serves as a vivid reminder of the military's presence and spirit, blending physical endurance with a tribute to service members. It attracts a wide range of participants, from competitive runners to military enthusiasts, all drawn by the unique opportunity to race in such a meaningful and dynamic environment.

Air Force Marathon

Post-Race Review/ Results

2:25:01 was the fourth-slowest winning time in race history but the first time a man from the U.S. Air Force grabbed the top prize.  Air Force member, Christopher Juarez took a victory in the 27th annual Marine Corps Marathon, beating Ethiopian Retta Feyissa.  Liz Scanlon won first place in the women’s race, unchallenged, in 2:57:27.

Juarez holds on for first win

First Air Force member to claim victory in race's short history

In the past three years, Air Force member Jeff Gibson has overcome major medical problems, but none of that was evident when he won the 2002 Air Force Marathon in Dayton, Ohio. He crossed the tape in 2:42:15, making him the first Air Force member in the race's six years to win. He was followed by fellow International Airman Guido Bocklandt of Belgium in 2:44.30.

Healthier Gibson wins Air Force Marathon

Columbus woman a native of South Africa

Sandy Hundley, a South African who moved to Columbus, OH, several years ago, won the 2002 Air Force Marathon in 3:16:41, a victory that came despite a brief part of the race in which she walked.
Jill Metzger, an Air Force Member who caught Hundley at one point only to watch her pull away, was second in 3:17:38.

Hundley wins her first-ever race at Air Force Marathon

Training will benefit him in the sky

Aaron Mihaljevich, 26, says training for the Air Force Marathon has been good for being in top shape to be a top gun. The fighter pilot debut in the Air Force Marathon Saturday with an 11th place finish.

Marathon Summary

Marathon Results