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.
The Flying Pig Marathon was the 13th largest marathon in the U.S. last year and was the 22nd largest in 2022.
This year 4.5% of finishers qualified for the Boston Marathon and 5.7% of runners qualified for Boston in 2023.
This gives the Flying Pig Marathon the 318th highest percentage of Boston Marathon qualifiers in the U.S. last year and the 294th highest percentage so far in 2024.
Its Course Score of 97.86 ranks it as the 333rd 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 290th 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)
There were aid stations every mile and cheer stations filled with enthusiastic people every two miles or so. Top notch event. I highly recommend.
Race Tips
The first half or so is pretty hilly especially with a long uphill from mile 6 to 7.5 or so. Conserve your energy early especially because the half runners are still with you and the course is crowded. Second half is rolling hills. You can get some time back on these downhills.
Stayed in the hotel in Covington across the bridge. Its a mile and half to the starting line (and back) which is no big deal. This is a big race, so plan to get to your corral and port-a-pot with plenty of time before start, as it starts on time and the corrals really aren't delayed. If you want to PR, make sure to get in the proper corral as there are lots of half marathon runners, and it would be hard to speed up to your pace if you're in a slower corral because there are so many runners. Course gets narrow in points, too.
H B's review of 2024 Flying Pig Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
It was a well organized and fun marathon. No shortage of aid stations with your standard water, Gatorade and couple gu stations late. There was it seemed an equal number of roque aid stations offering everything from gummy treats, cookies, oranges, bacon and beer. Yes you read right beer. Was offered one full can once and a cup at 2 others. It was hot and midway red flagged. But I prefer that personally than rain. Good expo and crowd support. The course it self is very challenging the first 9 miles is a climb. After that it seems more slightly down than up. Lots of city support and 10 K and fun runs day before
Race Tips
It's a fairly early start 6:30 am. Go out a little conservative but if your prepared a negative split is possible. It's large numbers but after couple miles it's good. Never alone
I stayed at the Westin,walkable to start,finish and city sights.
M M 's review of 2024 Flying Pig Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
Oh boy. I love this event and look forward to this weekend every year. The heat and humidity humbled me this year. It was close 65 at start and sticky. I think when I crossed the finish it was mid 70’s. Despite my poor performance, the event was executed without flaws.
Expo is always smooth & easy. Race day morning easy to navigate, plenty of restrooms and corrals set up well. Fluid stations did a great job given the heat. Towards the end there were plenty of hoses available to spray you down if needed. Cold wet towels at mile 23 was perfect! The final push was thrilling. Once you turn onto Mehring the pain and frustration goes away, as the crowd support intensifies. Felt like a champion crossing the line even though I had a tough day.
This is a race you need to do. The course is challenging. The event is well run and the goodies you get are the best; medal, shirt, poster, magnet, gym bag. If you like swag, the Pigs got you covered.
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!
