FAQs

Application Process/Registration

What are the age requirements for participation in a Philadelphia Marathon event?
The Philadelphia Marathon has adopted the following age participation policies by event distance: 16 and older for the marathon; 14 and older for the half marathon; 12 and older for the Rothman Institute 8k; and, 4-12 for the Kids Fun Run. All youth race participants under the age of 18 must have parent or guardian's signed authorization on the official event application & waiver. Be prepared to provide proof of age when picking up a minor's race packet.

May I register on race day?
No. There is no race day registration or packet pick-up for the Marathon, Half Marathon or Rothman Institute 8K.

May I switch my registration from one race to another?
Yes, as long as you do so before September 30th AND SPACE IS AVAILABLE IN THAT EVENT. A $10 administrative fee plus the additional cost for the event, if applicable, is charged to participants who wish to switch to another Philadelphia Marathon event. NO REFUNDS WILL BE ISSUED.

Can a friend pick up my packet for me?
Yes. Your friend will need to bring a hard copy of your final confirmation with your signature in order to retrieve your packet. Your friend must show his or her state-issued photo ID in order to pick up your packet.

I am entered in the race but recently incurred an injury and will be unable to compete. Can I defer my participation to next year?
No. We do not offer deferments or refunds.

How many participants do you expect? Do you expect to reach the maximum field size?
There were 20,000 participants in the 2009 race. This year, we expect to reach our maximum field size of 23,000, so please register early.

Do I need a qualifying time to enter the Philadelphia Marathon?
No.

Is the Philadelphia Marathon a qualifying race to the Boston Marathon?
Yes. Runner's World magazine selected our race as "The Best Place to Run a Boston Qualifier" in January 2007.

Are there Corporate Teams or Team Relays?
No, there are no team relays.

Is the Marathon walker-friendly?
Yes. The Philadelphia Marathon is open to all competitors, with few restrictions. Please note that all participants must maintain a 16-minute per mile pace throughout the course.

Why didn't I receive a registration confirmation email?
Based on your system's personal set up, it is not uncommon that confirmation emails get blocked, go to your SPAM folder, or end up in your junk mail. You can check your registration via the "Check if I'm Registered" button on the Active registration page or click on the link below.
Check if I'm Registered»

Race Day

I do not have a bib number. Can I run the race as an unofficial entrant?
No. Race amenities provided along the course, including medical assistance, fluid replenishment stations and traffic safety concerns are based on the exact number of officially-entered competitors. Any addition to this number by way of unofficial participants will adversely affect the races.

What are the locations for the port-a-johns?
Port-a-johns are located at the start/finish line area. Additionally, port-a-johns will be located at each water stop on the course.

What are the types and where are the locations for the replacement fluids?
Water and Gatorade stations are set up throughout the length of the course. Fluids will be supplied at race start and finish and the following locations:

• Columbus Boulevard & Race Street - Mile 2.2
• Washington Avenue & Columbus Boulevard - Mile 3.5
• 6th Street & Washington Square - Mile 5.25
• 31st & Chestnut Streets - Mile 7.5
• North Concourse Drive Memorial Hall - Mile 9.75
• MLK Drive at Disabled Rower's Boathouse - Mile 11.5
• North Side of Eakins Oval - Mile 13.25
• Kelly Drive & Fountain Green Drive - Mile 15 and Mile 24.8
• East Park Canoe House (Kelly Drive & Strawberry Mansion) - Mile 16.8 and Mile 23.3
• Kelly Drive & Midvale Avenue - Mile 18.1 and Mile 22
• Main & Cotton Streets - Mile 19.5 and Mile 20.5
• GU Energy Gels will also be available at miles 18 and 22

Fluid station locations will be finalized with your pre-race confirmation email. Be sure to check back for changes.

What is the average Temp at Start Time?
Approximately 45°F / 7.2°C at start time and at the finish about 54°F / 12° C.

Can I use a baby jogger, roller blades, scooter or bike?
No. These items are all strictly prohibited from the race course.

What are the different divisions of the Philadelphia Marathon that receive awards?
Please check the page for your specific race on this website for specific award and prize information.
Marathon»
Half Marathon»
Rothman Institute 8K»

Has the date changed for the Rothman Institute 8K?
Yes! The Rothman Institute 8K will be held on Saturday, November 20 at 7:30 a.m. The race start will be in the Philadelphia Museum of Art area. Specific location details will be provided once the course is confirmed.

How long will the finish be open?
The finish will be open for 7 hours.

How can I review results at the end of the race?
Online information is updated as the race progresses. The race results will be posted online 24 hours from the time of the final finisher.

Can I use headphones or earbuds?
The rule prohibiting headphones is no longer enforced by USATF; however, the Philadelphia Marathon recommends you do not wear them during the race. Runner safety is always our topmost concern.

Is there a course time limit for participants?
Yes. You must maintain a 16 minute mile. For marathon participants, you will only be allowed to proceed past the half marathon point if you have reached it within the 16 minute per mile time frame. If you have not reached that point during the prescribed time, you will be guided to finish at the half marathon

About Philadelphia

While I'm in Philadelphia, I'd like to visit different parts of the city. How do I get to South Philadelphia? Fairmount? Old City? Manayunk?
One of the things that makes Philadelphia great is its unique neighborhoods. Information on tours and itineraries are available at www.visitphilly.com. For those who prefer to travel on their own, contact SEPTA, the city's public transportation system at (215) 580-7800 or check out schedules at www.septa.org.

Is there late check-out at the hotels?
Many hotels in Philadelphia offer special rates for the Marathon weekend, but each has its own policies on check-in/check-out times. Please check with your hotel.

Can you recommend a good restaurant?
The Philadelphia Marathon has a special runner's pasta party on Saturday, November 20 at the Spaghetti Warehouse, but tickets sell out quickly. If you are unable to get a ticket, you can find information on many of Philadelphia's fine restaurants at www.visitphilly.com.

For Spectators, Press, Vendors and Shoppers

I am not running but want to know some information about watching the race.
The Rothman Institute 8K race is being held on Saturday, November 20 and begins at 7:30 a.m. The Marathon and Half Marathon race begins on Sunday, November 21 at 7:00 a.m. near the Philadelphia Museum of Art at 22nd Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway. There is plenty of room for spectators along the street at the start, or in the bleachers along the finish line. We also have several cheer zones along the course.

I'm with the press. Can I interview the winner of the race?
Yes. Members of the press should email Randy.Giancaterino@phila.gov after October 1st to request credentials. On race day, visit the media tent at Eakins Oval to pick up the press pass and, if you like, be escorted to meet the winners. You are also welcome to download photos and press releases from the media page.

How can I obtain a booth at the Health & Fitness Expo or insert an item into the runners' bags?
Click here for more information on how to become a vendor or exhibitor at the Health & Fitness Expo.

Where can I buy official Philadelphia Marathon sweatshirts, t-shirts, and other apparel?
Visit the website of the official Philadelphia Marathon merchandise partner at Endurafit.com.