PHOENIX – For the first time, Phoenix will host a signature marathon event, with a full, half, and 10-kilometer race set to take place on December 13. The Phoenix City Council approved the race during Wednesday’s council meeting, marking a major milestone for the city’s running community.
The inaugural Phoenix Marathon is expected to draw 5,000 athletes and generate an estimated $1.7 to $2 million in visitor spending and operations, with an overall economic impact surpassing $9 million, according to race organizers.
“Now, with the Phoenix Marathon, we will continue to be a premier destination for sports enthusiasts and runners of all calibers as they compete for entry into the New York Marathon, Boston Marathon, and the L.A. 2028 Olympics,” Phoenix Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien said in a press release.
Brooksee, a Salt Lake City-based endurance-event production company known for organizing major marathons in Las Vegas, Portland, and Mesa, will manage the event. The goal is to make the Phoenix Marathon an annual tradition that showcases the city’s vibrant running community.
“Phoenix is the largest major city in the U.S. without a signature marathon,” said Phil Dumontet, CEO of Brooksee. “Our goal is to establish a marquee race that unites the local community and draws visitors from across the country and the globe.”
Phoenix Marathon Course Details
All three races will finish at Papago Park and Phoenix Municipal Stadium, located near Priest Drive and Van Buren Street.
- Full Marathon – Starts at Deer Valley Towne Center in north Phoenix, traveling south along the Arizona Canalbefore passing through the Biltmore area and heading to Papago Park.
- Half Marathon – Begins at Central and Glendale avenues, following Glendale Avenue east, then merging onto the Arizona Canal Trail to join the full marathon route.
- 10K Race – Starts at the Arizona Canal Trail near 40th Street and Camelback Road, then merges with the final leg of the course.
The final stretch for all races will take runners through the Elliott Ramada Loop at Papago Park.
The USA Track and Field-certified course will serve as a qualifier for athletes looking to compete in the Boston and New York Marathons, as well as the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
Race Details
- Date: December 13, 2025
- Full Marathon Start Time: 7:00 a.m.
- Half Marathon Start Time: 7:15 a.m.
- 10K Start Time: 7:30 a.m.
With the Phoenix Marathon officially on the calendar, the city joins the ranks of major metropolitan areas with premier endurance events, giving local and visiting runners a new opportunity to compete in a world-class race.
