5 Reasons to Register for the Med City Marathon

The Med City Marathon has been the flagship of the Rochester running community for more than two decades—and for good reason. The course is net downhill and well-supported, the community comes out to cheer for runners in full force, and there’s something for every age and ability. The 2017 Med City Marathon takes place on the weekend of May 27-28.

Here’s what to expect at the 22nd running of the Med City Marathon:

A Great Course

There’s a little bit of everything on the Med City Marathon course: country roads, city bike paths, downtown streets, and more. The marathon, half marathon, and relay start in nearby Byron. After a 6-mile descent into Rochester, the course winds its way past a lake and into the Quarry Hill nature preserve before hitting the streets of the historic East Side Pioneers neighborhood. Half marathoners proceed to the finish at Mayo Civic Center. Marathoners follow an identical course for more than 12 miles before following the Zumbro River all the way to the Mayo family estate, then wind their way back to downtown Rochester for the finish.

A Fun After Party

Every runner 21 and over will be given a free pint of beer after the race, courtesy of local running club, Team R.E.D. Local bands will play outside the Civic Center all morning to give runners a chance to cool down with some dancing.

Something For Everyone

Not up for 13 miles or 26 miles? Then consider running the marathon relay or 5K (Saturday afternoon). There’s also a slew of kids races on Saturday, ranging in distance from a few yards for toddlers to a mile for older children. If you’re training for Grandma’s Marathon or another marathon later this spring, consider running the supported 20 Mile as a dress rehearsal for race day.

Local Pace Team

This year, pacers from the Terra Loco pace team will shepherd runners to the finish line in their goal time.

A Community Race

The Rochester community comes together for this race every year, from farm houses along the first few miles of the course blasting music for runners to local cross country teams working water stops to local medical professionals staffing first aid stations. But don’t just take our word for it. We asked Rochester runners what they like best about their hometown race. Here’s a little bit of what they had to say:

“Both times I ran the Med City Marathon it exceeded my expectations. It is well-organized [from] start to finish and the overall feel and energy surrounding the marathon is uplifting. Rochester also has great post-run options that are easy to get to if you stay in Rochester for the afternoon. I also appreciate that the local hotels provide marathon runners discounted prices, provide an early breakfast, and have buses to the start.” -Kristine Tibor

“It’s a very supportive race. No matter how fast or slow a runner you are, everyone is encouraging and cheering you on. Every year I have increased my distance and this is my first year doing the half [marathon]. The energy is just so positive at Med City.” –Amber Anderson

“I love the crazy hills at the start and you get to see the buffaloes! Then you can chill out, check out what Rochester’s all about, and join the dance party with free beer at the end. What’s not to love?? Another big draw is [the] ease of parking and ease of transitioning if you’re running the relay or spectating!” –Jennifer St. Amand

Are you running one of the Med City races?

Let us know what you’re looking forward to in the comments below.