Run through the streets of Akron and challenge your personal record!
The Akron Marathon has been held in the city of Akron since 2003, combining history and excitement to create a course that runners won’t want to miss.
Run through the highlights of the course, including the All-America Bridge, the Akron Art Museum, the University, and the majestic Summit Metro Park. The enthusiastic cheers of local residents will spur you on and ensure an unforgettable running experience.
Race through a vibrant course that combines history and nature!
The Akron Marathon, held in Akron, Ohio, features an attractive course that combines history and nature. You can enjoy running while touring the city of Akron, which flourished as the home of a world-famous tire manufacturer.
・Start and North Hill：Start on High Street near the Akron Art Museum, and the first mile across the All America Bridge is as exciting as the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge in the New York City Marathon. Feel the start of the race as you take in the spectacular views of the Cuyahoga River Valley.
・To the University of Akron：Cross the Y Bridge to the University of Akron campus. Pass the historic Hower House and reach the 5-mile mark near Infocision Stadium. Enjoy the lively university atmosphere as you move on to the next stage.
・Firestone Park：Run through lush nature at Firestone Park. Feel the history of Akron as you look at the shield-like park inspired by Harvey Firestone.
・Back to Downtown：Return to downtown and pass the commercial district. The last mile is an elevation change course, stimulating the runner’s spirit of challenge.
Attractions of this course
The Akron Marathon course is undulating, testing the runner’s physical and mental strength.
・Elevation change：There are several ups and downs on the course, which puts strain on the legs, especially in the latter half.
・Temperature：The race is held in late September, and the weather is comfortable, but the sun can be strong, so frequent hydration is necessary.
・Road conditions：Most of the road is asphalt, but there may be some cobblestones or dirt roads.
Voices from participants
“I had a lot of fun running around the historical buildings.”
“The undulating course made the run even more interesting.”
“I was moved by the warm support of the local people.”
“The sense of accomplishment when I finished was irreplaceable.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Akron Marathon is careful pacing. Use the initial flat and downhill sections (miles 3-8) to find your rhythm, and conserve energy for the major late-race climbs. Mentally prepare for the challenging “Rally from the Valley” and the ascents in Sand Run Parkway and Heart Rate Hill (miles 17-23). The flat, shady Towpath Trail section (miles 13-16) is crucial for a strategic rest and recovery before the final, strength-testing hills. Once you conquer the final uphill on Portage Path, the downhill to the iconic Blue Line finish at Lock 3 awaits.
The Akron Marathon is a 42.195km journey of heart and community. Run on the legendary Blue Line, conquer the challenging hills of Akron, and earn your unforgettable finish line moment with the support of a dedicated community.
2025 Akron Marathon Summary
・Date and time: September 27, 2025
・Number of finishers: 821 (Men: 552, Women: 266, Non-binary: 3)
・Average time: 4:34:16
MEN
1: Aaron Davidson: 2:17:56
2: Dylan Gearinger: 2:20:15
3: Jacob Kocis IV: 2:21:49
4: Dylan Garritano: 2:31:30
5: Kyle Stober: 2:32:07
6: Seamus Kettner: 2:37:32
7: John Ladesic: 2:38:22
8: Alec Cline: 2:38:34
9: AJ Kelly: 2:39:35
10: Andy Feltman: 2:41:01
WOMEN
1: Ashton Swinford: 2:49:57
2: Shannon Kilbane: 2:59:21
3: Laikin Tarlton: 3:00:00
4: Elaine Reedy: 3:02:43
5: Cheryl Bayart: 3:08:30
6: Macey Chik: 3:09:16
7: Zoe Brown: 3:13:36
8: Amanda Fire: 3:17:04
9: Ariana Redmond: 3:18:39
10: Kailey Reynolds: 3:20:22
2026 Akron Marathon
Calling all runners out there, this 42.195km race is a rewarding experience for you. Join fellow runners from around the world as you run the Blue Line, conquer the challenging hills, and experience something unforgettable.
・Location: Downtown Akron
・Date and time: September 26, 2026
・Start time: 7:00 AM
Akron: A charming city where history and nature intertwine
Known as the city where tires changed the world, Akron, Ohio, is a charming city that combines rich history and vibrant culture. Once a thriving center of the rubber industry, Akron was the birthplace of many famous companies, including Goodyear Tire. The streets lined with historical buildings, which make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time, invite visitors to experience the vitality of those times.
Akron’s harmony with nature is also one of its charms. The vast Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a place of relaxation that will help you forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Stan Hywet Hall, with its picturesque gardens, will make you feel like you’re visiting a European aristocrat’s mansion.
Art and culture are also elements that color Akron. At the Akron Art Museum, you can experience a wide range of art genres, from contemporary art to traditional works. In addition, events by local musicians and artists are frequently held, creating a lively streetscape.
Akron is also known as a city of education, and is home to numerous educational institutions, including the University of Ohio at Akron. The lively streets filled with students bring Akron’s youthful energy.
But that’s not all. There’s so much more to discover in Akron, including friendly locals, beautiful nature in every season, and lively events.
Why not come and visit Akron and make some unforgettable memories?
