The 26.2 mile Classic City Marathon course and Athena Half Marathon course start together in historic downtown Athens. While the two courses split early on, the marathoners rejoin the half marathoners at several points. The course runs through our downtown streets, vibrant communities, and greenways, with bands and cheer zones along the way. In the final third of the races you will be greeted by our energetic Greek Life (sorority and fraternity historic homes) as run down Milledge Avenue. The race finishes downtown at the Athens Classic Center, where you will be welcomed warmly.
Rankings will be listed for 2024 at the end of the year.
Its Course Score of 97.43 ranks it as the 356th fastest marathon course in the U.S. and the 10th fastest course in Georgia.
The typical race time temperature and humidity levels are within the ideal range for optimal marathon performance. This, coupled with the Course Score, gives the Classic City Marathon a PR Score of 97.43. This PR Score ranks it as the 302nd fastest marathon in the U.S. and the 8th fastest in Georgia.
Learn more about PR Scores and Course Scores on the FAQ page.
Classic City Marathon Elevation Chart
Max Elevation: 808 feet (246m) Min Elevation: 600 feet (182m)
The overall experience was fantastic, especially for the inaugural running. They really did a great job showcasing everything that makes Athens, GA a great town.
The expo was held at a local brewery with live music. Even though it was pouring rain outside where the vendor tents were the atmosphere was still great.
Pre-race they had the Classic Center (convention center) open to stay warm and use real bathrooms. Gear check was there and very smooth. Lots of volunteers to point folks in the right direction.
At the starting line they probably could have used a few more port-a-potties for those who skipped gear check or needed a last minute potty. The lines were a little long for those but I think everyone ended up being able to start on time. Part of the UGA Redcoat Marching Band came out to play the National Anthem so that was a nice touch.
Finish line wasn't the most scenic since it was tucked back behind the convention center, but the crowd was lively. Back inside the convention center for the finish line festival had an OK selection of snacks. Lot's of tables and chairs for sit and wait on friends/family to finish and celebrate.
Race Tips
A fairly hilly course but only a couple very short, steep climbs. Most of the elevation gain comes from two long stretches. The first is part of the out-and-back section, but seeing all the runners come back towards you kept spirits high. The second stretch is more grueling as it's in the last 6 miles, but this is also where crowd support was the best.
There's only one sharp U-turn and it's at the top of the long climb. Unfortunately it's also right at the half way point where the relay hand-off is so there was a bit of congestion. Being such a small race (400 marathoners, 400 relay teams) it wasn't too bad but if the race grows it might become a problem.
Aid stations were plentiful and well supported. They used re-usable water cups that had a good weight to them and very flexible which made it easy to pour into your mouth on the go. Also had Powerade at every stop along with a few port-a-potties. I only remember seeing gels at one stop so be prepared to pack your own.
Definitely not a BQ friendly course if you're on the cusp but still very reasonable to have a good finishing time if you've trained for hills.
The downtown start/finish is central to all the hotels. If you drive in, the street parking is free but many of the lots are reserved for churches on Sunday mornings so check ahead of time. There's also a lot at the Classic Center.
Downtown Athens has a ton of great food options for both before and after the race. Stay a few days and check out the music scene that birthed the B-52s and REM!
Ben Inouye's review of 2024 Classic City Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
The race organization was impeccable - among the best I've ever run. The course is tough...hills are long and 2024 was windy at the worst points...but...the temperature was perfect (40ish at the start and 45ish at the finish). The later start was really nice too. The course was well marked and the paved trail that makes up a big chunk was a great running surface.
