The Eugene Marathon 2025 returns on April 27, marking its 18th year as one of the most beloved running events in the Pacific Northwest. Held in the heart of TrackTown USA, where running is more than a sport—it’s a way of life—this event offers participants a rare opportunity to follow in the footsteps of legends like Steve Prefontaine, Bill Bowerman, and countless world-class athletes who trained on the hallowed grounds of Hayward Field.
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner aiming for a personal best, a first-timer testing your endurance, or a local just out to cheer on the runners, Eugene’s marathon weekend is packed with excitement, camaraderie, and that special Oregon vibe.
1. Event Overview: More Than Just a Race
The Eugene Marathon isn’t just a footrace—it’s a celebration of fitness, community, and legacy. Each year, it draws thousands of runners from across the globe to participate in one of four dynamic race distances:
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Marathon (26.2 miles)
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Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
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Eugene 5K presented by OCCU
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Kids Duck Dash
Each course is thoughtfully designed to showcase the natural beauty and urban charm of Eugene and Springfield, while the finisher’s lap inside Hayward Field—the same track that has seen Olympic Trials and World Championships—adds a thrilling finale that few marathons in the world can match.
2. Full Weekend Schedule Highlights
Friday, April 25
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Health & Wellness Expo
🕐 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at The Graduate Eugene
Saturday, April 26
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Eugene 5K – 8:00 a.m. Start | 8:30 a.m. Awards
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Kids Duck Dash – 9:30 a.m. Start | 9:45 a.m. Awards
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Krusteaz Pancake Breakfast – 8:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
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PR Project Sessions @ Expo – Noon – 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, April 27 – Race Day
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Marathon & Half Marathon Start – 7:00 a.m.
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Finish Festival – 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. featuring live music, Hop Valley Beer, and more pancakes!
3. The Course: Fast, Flat, and Scenic
Starting outside Hayward Field, the marathon route passes:
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Leafy university neighborhoods
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Amazon Park trails
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The serene banks of the Willamette River
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Eugene’s revitalized Downtown Riverfront Park
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Autzen Stadium, home of the Oregon Ducks
Minimal elevation (only 494 feet of gain) makes this a Boston Qualifier dream.
4. Participant Perks & Amenities at the Eugene Marathon 2025
All race participants receive:
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🏅 Finisher Medal
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🛍️ Reusable Goodie Bag
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🥞 Krusteaz Pancake Access
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🚍 Free Shuttle Service
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🥤 Well-Stocked Aid Stations
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🎶 Entertainment Zones
5. Run for a Cause: Charity Teams
This year’s headline charity partner is the Parkinson’s Foundation, inviting runners to “Run for a Reason.” Fundraisers can earn:
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Free race entry
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Team gear
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VIP access on race weekend
Multiple other nonprofits are participating—check the website to find your cause.
6. For Competitive Runners: Elite Athlete Program
Elite and sub-elite perks include:
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Free or reduced entry
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Personalized bottle drops
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Recovery lounge access
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On-site support and pre-race strategy sessions
Apply by March 15, 2025.
7. Registration Info & Deadlines
🎽 Full Marathon: ❌ SOLD OUT
🎽 Eugene 5K: ❌ SOLD OUT
🎽 Half Marathon: ✅ STILL OPEN!
Register online or at the Expo (April 25–26). Late registration fees range from $180–$190.
🚫 No race-day registration. Bibs must be picked up during Expo hours or early race morning.
8. Frequently Asked Questions about Eugene Marathon 2025
⏰ Time Limits?
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Marathon: 7 hours
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Half Marathon: 3.5 hours
📝 Can I register on race day?
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No. All registration closes at the Expo.
🏃 Are pacers available?
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Yes! For both PRs and Boston qualifying times.
🆘 What if I can’t finish?
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Shuttle transport from mile 16 back to the finish is available for full marathoners.
9. Past Winners and Noteworthy Moments
The Eugene Marathon has seen its share of remarkable performances and stories over the years. Here are just a few highlights from past races:
🥇 Past Champions
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2023 Men’s Champion: Jason Schlarb – 2:21:00
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2023 Women’s Champion: Kaitlin Goodman – 2:41:54
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2018 Champion: Jared Carson – 2:22:21
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2016 Champion: Craig Leon – 2:21:14
Many winners have used Eugene as a tune-up race for Olympic Trials or to hit qualifying times for world majors like Boston and New York.
🎉 Notable Occurrences
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2021’s “Hayward Homecoming” marked the first marathon finish inside the newly renovated Hayward Field, giving runners an unforgettable stadium finish in front of cheering fans.
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In 2015, record-setting heat (mid-80s by mid-race) created grueling conditions, but the race still saw high completion rates and a powerful display of endurance and community support.
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In 2010, runners were greeted with a rainbow just before sunrise—many called it a spiritual experience as they crossed the Willamette.
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The inaugural 2007 Eugene Marathon helped revitalize the city’s identity as a national running hub, setting the stage for Hayward Field’s later renovations and hosting of World Athletics Championships.
👟 Fastest Course Records
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Men’s Record: 2:16:45 – Aaron Rono, 2012
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Women’s Record: 2:35:01 – Serena Burla, 2014
Conclusion: Join the Legacy
The Eugene Marathon 2025 is more than just a race—it’s a movement. Whether you’re running to win, to finish, to honor someone, or to simply experience the magic of Hayward Field, this is a race that stays with you long after the medal is hung.
👉 Half Marathon spots remain, but don’t wait—registration closes after Expo day.
So grab your shoes, book your trip, and get ready to run where legends were made. The track awaits you.
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