The hilly Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon course starts near the banks of the Ohio River, crosses the river twice, loops northeast, before returning to the Ohio River.
The majority of the hills in the Marathon are in the first nine miles of the course. The first two crossing the bridges coming into Kentucky and leaving Kentucky.
After several flat miles, runners climb approximately 300 feet climb between miles six through nine. The course then becomes rolling until mile 19.
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Flying Pig Marathon
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How does the Flying Pig Marathon Rank?
The Flying Pig Marathon was the 13th largest marathon in the U.S. last year and was the 22nd largest in 2022.
Last year 5.7% of finishers qualified for the Boston Marathon and 4.2% of runners qualified for Boston in 2022.
This gives the Flying Pig Marathon the 316th highest percentage of Boston Marathon qualifiers in the U.S. last year and the 362nd highest percentage in 2022.
Its Course Score of 97.86 ranks it as the 332nd fastest marathon course in the U.S. and the 9th fastest course in Ohio.
The typical race time temperature and humidity levels are slightly above the ideal range for optimal marathon performance. This, coupled with the Course Score, gives the Flying Pig Marathon a PR Score of 97.71. This PR Score ranks it as the 286th fastest marathon in the U.S. and the 8th fastest in Ohio.
Learn more about PR Scores and Course Scores on the FAQ page.
Flying Pig Marathon Elevation Chart
Max Elevation: 822 feet (250m) Min Elevation: 482 feet (146m)
The Pig is my home course and I love it. This year we had unusually heavy rain for first 6-8 miles. Heard there was a shelter in place warning given at some point. Didn't know about it until after. I'm very happy they elected to let us run.
It's a great course, well run event and definitely one you should put on the list.
Race Tips
Hills first 8-9 miles don't go out too fast. Rolling hills beyond that. Great support from crowd most of the way.
Without a doubt, the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon is one of the best events in the country. There is NOTHING race organizers have not considered in making the race enjoyable for all (racers and spectators).
Yes, the course is very challenging, but it is beautiful and well laid out with each feature of the course set-up very well. It is NOT a "one trick pony" or monotonous, but loaded with variety that will test all facets of running and endurance prowess.
Race Tips
Be disciplined in maintaining pace strategy. Enjoy the crowd support, it is awesome!
Stay downtown/host hotel if possible, easy walking to start finish area.
IR's review of 2017 Flying Pig Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
This was my 9th marathon, previous ones: Chicago (3x), Boston, IL Marathon, St. Louis, Houston & Buffalo. This was by far the funnest one of them all. For a mid-sized marathon the course support is pretty amazing & the pig theme is kept through everywhere.
The course is challenging through about 9 with a few good hills. After that it's mostly rolling but more down than up. You reach the highest point on mile 8 with an awesome view of the city. There are a couple miles where are you REALLY running down & it's a great opportunity to get going after the hills.
The race has way more aid stations than other races mainly because it's sponsored by Proctor & Gamble. Course is descently tough, crowd & race support awesome, would do it again in a heart-beat!
Race Tips
I ended up running a PR despite it being the hilliest marathon I've done. I kept it relaxed & controlled until I got through the hills after about 9. On miles 10 & 11 it's nothing but downhill followed by a little up on 12 & a HUGE downhill on 13 (-144ft). I dropped my pace on mile 10 & was strong all the way through 21. Once you hit 19 or so you get onto the interstate & crowd support wavers until about 24.
I loved everything about this race except for the emoji theme. Excellent organization and support. Loved the pacers. Beautiful scenic course.
Race Tips
Definitely find a pacer and stick with them! I wasn't ready for the hills in Cincinnati but our experienced pacers kept us from going too hard on the hills, and led me to achieve a personal record several minutes below my goal time.
Book your hotel early, or try an Airbnb! We saved a lot of money by renting an apartment through Airbnb, plus had a lot more space and amenities than a hotel offers.
Eli's review of 2016 Flying Pig Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
Super fun course FULL spectators, bridges, great views, pig costumes and Elvis is even there. What's not to love?
