The Glass City Marathon course is a fast, flat, scenic tour of some of Toledo's most beautiful neighborhoods. The majority of the race is run on paved asphalt bike trail and concrete streets.
The flat course, coupled with favorable race day temperatures, can make the Glass City Marathon a very good prospect for a PR or BQ (Boston Qualifier).
The typical race time temperature and humidity levels are above the ideal range for optimal marathon performance. You may need to adjust your time goal, especially if you are not acclimated to higher temperatures and/or humidity.
The Glass City Marathon was the 60th largest marathon in the U.S. last year and was the 57th largest in 2022.
Last year 26.9% of finishers qualified for the Boston Marathon and 13.7% of runners qualified for Boston in 2022.
This gives the Glass City Marathon the 23rd highest percentage of Boston Marathon qualifiers in the U.S. last year and the 107th highest percentage in 2022.
Its Course Score of 99.09 ranks it as the 180th fastest marathon course in the U.S. and the 4th fastest course in Ohio.
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 Glass City Marathon a PR Score of 99.09. This PR Score ranks it as the 131st fastest marathon in the U.S. and the 4th fastest in Ohio.
Learn more about PR Scores and Course Scores on the FAQ page.
Glass City Marathon Elevation Chart
Max Elevation: 680 feet (207m) Min Elevation: 582 feet (177m)
Stay on Secor close to UT or downtown on the river. Pre race dinner at Zia's Saturday is excellent.
D G's review of 2023 Glass City Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
This is a well-organized marathon with a fast course. Some nice gradual downhills when you need them like in the park after mile 20. The stretch from mile 22 to 25 can get tough with small crowd support and not much to see but push through since you are getting close. I enjoyed the feel of not running in a city atmosphere like in Cincinnati, Columbus, Cleveland, Detroit or Pittsburgh. Not saying that Toledo is a better marathon but it was nice that it was totally different than the city marathons. This marathon is also very convenient if staying north of the start on Secor road. The after party was also very nice.
Race Tips
Even pacing or trying to negative split on this course should be attempted. Be cognizant of the direction of the wind and plan accordingly by drafting off others when possible and getting into a position to allow it to push you when it is at your back.
For the race directors it was great having a number of timing spots throughout the course but should add one to the half marathon point.
MT's review of 2022 Glass City Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
The race is well organized and runs through some beautiful neighborhoods. Not as flat as I expected and with more twists and turns than I thought, but still a pretty fast course overall, specially if weather is in the 40’s as usual.
2022 weather was, unfortunately, pretty hot (mid 60's at race start) which made it harder than usual.
Still, a very good experience overall, with top level runners and a good race for a PR.
Instead of staying at a hotel downtown (which are few and not very good level in general), consider staying at an AirBnb or similar nearby the race start. Beautiful and safe area for families.
Kori K.'s review of 2022 Glass City Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
Race is well run, first 8ish miles on open roads, so not too congested. Run by a church and Father will bless you with holy water if you want-not if you don't. Pockets of spectators through second half. Would love to see more live music or DJs along the course.
Race Tips
Great local race energy and welcoming for visitors. Flat, fast course-plenty of parking, but get their early to park near the start and avoid having to navigate around road closures.
