Little Rock Marathon

Location: Little Rock, Arkansas
Country: United States
Website: https://littlerockmarathon.com
2025 Marathon Date: 02/03/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 01/03/2026
Winning Time 2025: 2:32:20
% Sub-3s: 1–2%
# Sub-3s: 10–49
Total Runners: 1k–3k

The Little Rock Marathon is a distinctive spring race in Arkansas’s capital city. Known primarily for its oversized finisher medals and community-driven ethos, the event combines southern hospitality with a demanding course layout that challenges even seasoned marathoners.

The route begins and ends in downtown Little Rock, winding through historic neighbourhoods, parklands and university campuses. It includes rolling hills throughout, with some steeper climbs in the second half, making it less suited to negative splitting and better approached with conservative early pacing.

Weather in early March is variable, but usually falls within the range of 7–12°C at the start. Humidity can be a factor, and runners should be prepared for occasional wind or light rain. The course remains fully on road, and while it’s not built for records, it rewards strength, strategy and mental toughness.

Despite a relatively small field, the event is known for its enthusiastic local support, colourful signage and high-energy volunteers. Aid stations are plentiful, and the race organisers embrace a celebratory tone, which stands in contrast to the more serious racing culture of some major city marathons.

Sub-3 runners will find fewer peers to pace with here, but those aiming to conquer a more tactical or hilly marathon may enjoy the test. The smaller field allows for freedom of movement and personal space, and the elevation profile creates a race that rewards patience and discipline.

While not an obvious choice for a personal best, the Little Rock Marathon offers a rich experience with a unique personality. It may appeal to runners seeking a change from flat, fast city circuits - or to those who value atmosphere and challenge over time alone.