Run for a mission and be inspired. Memphis, a 42.195km journey of hope.
The Memphis Marathon Weekend is a race defined by its profound charitable mission, uniting runners globally to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Held every year in early December, it is a 42.195km journey through the iconic streets of Memphis, Tennessee.
Starting from the lively Beale Street district is exciting, and the rolling hills of the course are challenging, but the emotional journey through the St. Jude campus and the cheers from the community provide an unparalleled driving force.
An unforgettable sense of purpose and accomplishment awaits, as you run in solidarity with the mission to save children’s lives.
Memphis Marathon: A 42.195km journey of heart and hope
The Memphis Marathon is not just a race. It is a heartfelt mission to help children fight life-threatening diseases. Push your limits and write your story alongside thousands of runners, all united for the kids of St. Jude.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The inspirational journey begins in the iconic and lively Beale Street district. Runners lining up at the start are energized by the spirit of Memphis, ready to run for a cause bigger than themselves. The first few miles are relatively flat as you head into the heart of the city.
Sights along the way
The Memphis Marathon course attracts runners with its blend of musical history, diverse scenery, and an emotional mission.
・5-10 miles: Runners are taken through historic neighborhoods and into the first major highlight: The vibrant Mississippi Riverfront. The view of the revitalized waterfront and the Hernando de Soto bridge offers a scenic and uplifting experience.
・15-18 miles: The most moving part of the race awaits: running through the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital campus. This segment is flat and emotional, offering a powerful reminder of the mission as children, staff, and families cheer the runners on.
・18-24 miles: After leaving the St. Jude campus, the course continues through historic neighborhoods, featuring lively block parties and warm support from local residents. The challenge begins here with the continuous rolling hills of Memphis, including the loop through Overton Park.
・25 miles to the finish: The final push is a descent towards the finish line. After tackling the rolling hills, runners finish with a downhill on Union Avenue adjacent to AutoZone Park, where the finish festival is held.
Finish Point
Finish in the heart of downtown at AutoZone Park! The profound sense of purpose from supporting St. Jude’s mission and the countless cheers at the finish line will be the best memory of hope and triumph.
Elevation and Climate
・Elevation: The course is classified as a “Rolling” race. The total elevation gain is about 214m (703ft), and the cumulative elevation descent is about 215m (706ft). The highest point is 93m (306ft) and the lowest point is 66m (219ft). The course features continuous rolling hills, making strategic pacing crucial, especially after the St. Jude campus and through Overton Park.
・Weather: The race is held in early December in Memphis. The weather can be ideal for running, but temperatures can fluctuate in the Southern early winter. The expected temperature range is low 3°C (38°F) to high 12°C (54°F).
Participants’ comments
・ “The reason to run this race is one: St. Jude. The tour of the hospital was amazing.”
・ “It’s a tough course with rolling hills, but there’s pretty good crowd support throughout.”
・ “Running through the St. Jude campus is the most special part. A race for the kids and for Memphis.”
・ “Extremely well supported race. Great Race for a Greater Cause.”
・ “The energy and excitement of running for a mission, the inspiration from the children, and the cheers from the community make this experience truly special.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Memphis Marathon is to manage your energy through the rolling hills in the first and final sections. Start with a solid pace through the Beale Street district, absorb the emotional energy when running through the St. Jude campus, and save strength for the continuous ups and downs leading to Overton Park. The final downhill finish provides a moment of relief and triumph.
The Memphis Marathon is a 42.195km journey that will move your heart. Run through the city of Blues, united by a mission to save children’s lives, and achieve the greatest sense of purpose in your life.
2024 Memphis Marathon Summary
・Date and time: December 7, 2024
・Number of finishers: –
・Average time:-
MEN
1: Carl Nelson: 2:34:18
2: Titan Munday: 2:40:06
3: Walt Johnson: 2:41:47
4: Michael England: 2:43:40
5: David Arroyo: 2:44:26
6: Dylan Drambour: 2:45:39
7: Mark Rabasco: 2:46:25
8: Joseph Hoch: 2:48:33
9: Brian Rowe: 2:49:23
10: Oliver Drambour: 2:50:52
WOMEN
1: Johanna Wistokat: 2:54:45
2: Abby Hake: 3:01:39
3: Julianne Dickerson: 3:02:23
4: Sally Heil: 3:02:54
5: Nia Goddard: 3:03:41
6: Kacey Frank: 3:07:56
7: Stacy Haas: 3:09:32
8: Elizabeth Arnott-Hill: 3:11:00
9: Hannah Stoneking: 3:11:20
10: Jessica Keltner: 3:15:46
2025 Memphis Marathon
Calling all runners out there, this 42.195km race is a thrilling experience for you. Join fellow runners from around the world as you run through the streets of Memphis, raising hope and experiencing something unforgettable.
・Location: B.B. King Boulevard near Beale Street, Memphis, TN
・Date and time: December 6, 2025
・Start time: 8:00am
Memphis: The Soul of the South, Home of the Blues
Memphis is the birthplace of the Blues, Soul, and Rock ‘n’ Roll, a city where music history was made. The legendary Beale Street, filled with the sounds of live music and vibrant life, draws visitors from around the world. From the historic music halls to the inspirational mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis is a city that touches the heart.
The city offers a unique blend of Southern charm, world-class cuisine (especially BBQ), and deep cultural history, including the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel. This city, where deep history and modern charity intersect, offers a unique blend of Southern charm and energetic renewal. It is a special place where every visitor can connect with the mission of hope at St. Jude, making it a truly unforgettable destination.
