Big 5 Duke City Marathon

The Little Rock Marathon takes place in Little Rock, Arkansas, on the first weekend of March. Its main event is a certified 26.2-mile single-loop marathon. Established in 2003, the race is sanctioned by USATF and serves as a Boston Marathon qualifier. It attracts runners and walkers from all 50 states and over 15 countries, supported by an 8-hour marathon limit and a 4-hour half-marathon limit. Additionally, it provides a free year-round training program and generates funds for Little Rock Parks & Recreation. The course begins and ends in Downtown Little Rock, crossing the Arkansas River. It features landmarks such as the Arkansas State Capitol, River Market District, Clinton Presidential Center, Governor's Mansion, MacArthur Birthplace/Military Museum, and Historic Little Rock Central High School. The course is not flat; the most significant incline occurs early, followed by smaller hills later. Runner Bill Rodgers commented that Little Rock is "a little salty." The event incorporates fun elements, including a unique theme annually, themed merchandise and expo decorations, costumed participants, the couch potato mile, the Lipstick Stop, and a large finisher medal that reportedly grows slightly larger each year.