Thousands run 51st Marine Corps Marathon in DC area with new race organization

Thousands of runners participated in the 51st Marine Corps Marathon held in the Washington DC area, starting around 7:20 a.m. near the Pentagon, WTOP reported. The race began in chilly temperatures but was expected to warm up as it progressed.

Marine Corps Maj. Kyle King won the men’s race with a time of 2 hours and 17 minutes, marking his fourth victory in the event. The women’s race was won by Kaylee Slade from Colorado, finishing in 2 hours and 44 minutes.

This year’s marathon introduced a new system where runners were grouped into corrals based on their anticipated finish times, rather than choosing their starting positions. Corral numbers were displayed on runners’ bibs, and Marines organized the start near the Pentagon.

The finish line at the Marine Corps War Memorial remained closed to spectators, similar to the previous year. Instead, family and friends were able to reconnect with runners at the finish festival held in Rosslyn.

The marathon also caused a series of road closures in the DC area. Participants included both experienced runners and first-timers, some competing despite injuries, highlighting the event’s strong community spirit.