Registration for 2023 events is open! Register here. Ensure lowest prices by registering early!

Please check back for updates as the marathon weekend approaches.

Race overview

The next Detroit Free Press Marathon weekend will take place Oct. 13-15, 2023. The Marathon, International Half-Marathon, U.S.-Only Half-Marathon and Marathon Relay take place on Sunday, Oct. 15. The 5K, Competitive 1-Mile and Meijer Kids Fun Run happen on Saturday, Oct. 14.

2023 dates:

Friday, Oct. 13, 2023

Saturday, Oct.  14, 2023

Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023

2024 dates:

Friday, Oct. 18, 2024

Saturday, Oct.  19, 2024

Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024

Entry fees are non-refundable. That means that once we receive and accept your entry, you will not receive a refund if you cannot participate.

You may, however, transfer your entry to another year. Information about transfers can be found here.

Since the events are international, it is a federal offense to cross borders illegally. Therefore, do not give your number to another person. It is each participant’s responsibility to provide proper documentation for picking up their packet.

The Detroit Free Press Marathon, in accordance with management executives, city officials and local law enforcement, has the authority to cancel any of the events for emergency purposes, such as, but not limited to, inclement weather or threat of terrorism. If such emergency conditions force cancellation, refunds cannot be provided because funds will have been spent in preparation for the race.

If you cannot participate in the event you signed up for, more information about transfers and deferrals can be found here.

Yes, the Detroit Free Press Marathon is certified by USA Track and Field (USATF) officials each year to an exact standard that guarantees event distances are correct.

We are not a USATF sanctioned event. This means that it is not possible to set an American record on our course, nor is it possible to qualify for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials.

Yes, the Detroit Free Press Marathon is a Boston-qualifying race, and runners are eligible to apply if they run a qualifying time. The qualifying standard and the application process is covered at www.BAA.org.

Each year, we partner with charities for our Run for a Reason Program.

When you designate an official charity during registration, it does not mean that a portion of your registration fee goes to the designated charity; it instead means that you have the option to raise funds for your charity. In order to sign up with your chosen charity, check out the Official Charities section of our site.

Yes, finishers in all races receive a medal. They each have the same design, but varying sizes based on the distance of the race – smaller for 5K, larger for Marathon. Each medal also has a distinct ribbon based on the race distance.

The course records for our marathon:

Male
Greg Meyer, Boston
2:13:07 (1980)

Female
Elena Orlova, Russia
2:34:16 (2004)

Runners who break a course record will win an additional $500.

Our mid-October date generally provides participants with ideal running weather. A cool morning start and cool to mild mid-race temperatures with  limited precipitation.

Due to a lack of interest in the 2022 events, we will no longer be offering a virtual option for any of our races.

Registration

Registration is available online now through our registration partner, EnMotive. Sign up here.

The deadline to register for any international event is September 13, 2023, and October 7, 2023, for any U.S.-only events.

You may run the Marathon Relay as a team member, and run another individual, international event (Marathon or International Half-Marathon) concurrently, as long as you register for and pay the entry fee for both events. You must run Leg #1 of the Marathon Relay to avoid difficult timing issues. For this reason, you may not run the Marathon Relay and the U.S.-Only Half-Marathon together.

Your steps to success:

  • You will be given two separate bib numbers – one for the Marathon Relay and one for your individual event. You must wear both. Each relay team, overall, will receive one timing bib on a belt. This bib will start with leg 1 and will be passed between each leg runner.
  • You will run the 1st leg of the Relay, and will cross the timing mat at the start of Relay Leg 2. Once you have crossed the mat and Relay Leg 2 Runner has started, your Relay participation is over.
  • Just remove your relay timing bib on the belt and give it to the next leg runner. Remove the Relay bib from the front of your shirt and display your individual event bib.

Registration opens on Jan. 1, 2023.  The opening price remains in effect until Jan. 9, 2023. After that, prices rise roughly every 1 -2 months.  To view pricing details, click here.

If you deferred in 2022, you are already registered for 2023. An email will be sent to all those individuals with instructions on how to update your registration. If you have any questions about this process, drop us a line at support@freepmarathon.zendesk.com.

Transfers to new participants, change in distances or deferrals

Participants are able to change distances, or transfer to another participant  for a $20 fee, up until September 13 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Participants in our U.S.-Only races may continue transfer to another participant or change distances for a $25 fee, up until Oct. 7 at 11:59 p.m. EST, with some exceptions. Instructions for how to change your registration to another distance, how to transfer to another person or defer your registration through our registration partner EnMotive can be found below. The deadline for deferrals is October 7, 2023.

Transferring to a new participant

  1. Log into your EnMotive account here. Click ‘Registrations’ and find your 2023 registration for the Detroit Free Press Marathon.
  2. In the right corner of your registration, click on the three dots.
  3. Select Actions Transfer registration.
  4. Please enter the email address of the person you wish to transfer your registration to. This will then send an email with transfer information to the new registrant.
  5. The new registrant will be able to use the custom link sent to them for 48 hours. They will be charged the transfer fee.
  6. If the person does not transfer their registration within 48 hours, you will need to follow steps 1-4 again to get a new custom link sent out.
  7. The new registrant does not have to participate in the same race as the original participant. When they sign up with the custom link, they will be able to select a new event and just pay the difference in price between the two!

Note: EnMotive will not refund the registration fee for the original registration. Any compensation for the transferred registration needs to be handled outside of the platform.

Changing to a different distance

  1. Log into your EnMotive account here.  Click “Registrations” and find your current 2023 registration for the Detroit Free Press Marathon.
  2. In the right corner of your registration, click on the three dots.
  3. Select “View Registration.”
  4. Next to category click “edit.”
  5. Choose the event distance you would like to change to.
  6. You will need to answer all the necessary questions and pay the difference between the two events if you are upgrading as well as the category change fee.

Deferring your registration

Participants are able to defer their registration to the 2024 event for a $25 fee, up until October 7, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. EST. No deferrals will be accepted after this date. N0 deferrals will be accepted at the Health & Fitness Expo. Instructions for how to defer your registration can be found below.

  1. Log into your EnMotive Account here. Click “Registrations” and find your current 2023 registration for our event.
  2. In the right corner of your registration, click on the three dots.
  3. Select “Defer to another event.”
  4. From the event dropdown menu, select “2024 Detroit Free Press Marathon,” then follow the prompts to complete the deferral.
  5. Once your self-deferral is complete*, you will receive an email with your 2024 event information. You will not need to re-register when 2024 registration opens.

*For the Challenge Series, you will only have to self-defer one event in the series and pay the deferral fee at that time.  Then, you will need to reach out to request deferral(s) of other event(s) in the Challenge Series at no cost. Details below.

Supreme:

Wonder:

Temptation:

All registrations are non-refundable, but if you registered for the 2023 event and unfortunately are unable to participate on race day, you have a few options:

1. Transfer your registration to another individual.

2. Defer your registration to the 2024 event.

Instructions on transferring or deferring your registration can be found here.

You can confirm your 2023 race registration by looking up your name here.

To confirm your information, race distance and more, follow the steps below:

  1. Login to your EnMotive account, here
  2. Click Registrations
  3. Find the “2023 Detroit Free Press Marathon” event
  4. Click “View Registration”

Participants are able to modify their shirt size and pace time by following the below instructions:

  1. Login to your EnMotive account, here
  2. Click ‘‘My Account’’ in the upper right corner
  3. Scroll to the race registration that you need to update the size for (2023 Detroit Free Press Marathon)
  4. Click ‘‘View Registration’’
  5. To update race shirt size, click “edit” next to products. Size changes are not allowed for any purchased products. Please reach out to Running Lab if you would like to request a size change.
  6. To update estimated pace, click “edit” next to additional details
  7. Update and save!

Any other registration details must be updated by race staff at this time. Please contact us if this is necessary.

Note: Any edits to your distance/chosen race is considered a category change that will incur a change fee. Please visit our transfer and changes page for all information regarding switching your distance/race.

Below are step-by-step instructions to join an established relay team.

  1. You will begin registration here.
  2. Make sure there are no other registrations in your cart in the top right corner. If there are pending registrations in your cart, please complete them or remove them before moving forward with the next steps.
  3. Select Marathon Relay.
  4. Select the person participating from your EnMotive account profile and click next.
  5. Follow the flow of registration
  6. When you get to the Add Details page under Team section you will find and select your team name from the drop-down list.
  7. When prompted, please select one of the legs available.
  8. Once the leg is selected the correct questions for that leg will populate. You must answer those, click continue and it will take you to a billing/checkout page and show that you owe $0.00. You must answer all questions to bring the total down to $0.00.
  9. Finally, make sure you select “complete” from the billing page.

It is highly recommended that you purchase the EnMotive Protection Plan (Registration Insurance) as your entry fee is non-refundable.

The EnMotive Protection Plan may be purchased for a nominal fee when registering for any of our events. All policy information can be found here. The EnMotive Protection Plan typically covers approved medically related situations (see policy for details) but will not cover your registration fee if the event is canceled either by organizers or the government for incidents like COVID-19, inclement weather, etc.

The EnMotive Protection Plan cannot be purchased after registration and must be purchased while completing registration for any of our events.

COVID-19

On Sept. 26, 2022,  the Government of Canada announced the removal of all COVID-19-related entry restrictions, including testing, quarantine and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada, effective Oct. 1, 2022. The full announcement can be found here. This means U.S. citizens no longer face COVID-19-related restrictions when crossing the U.S. or Canadian borders.

Non-U.S. citizens entering the U. S. may still have COVID-19-related restrictions. You can find those restrictions here.

If you’re not feeling well, please stay home for the safety of other participants and spectators.

No, U.S.-Only Half-Marathon participants are not required to be vaccinated, regardless of citizenship status.

Non-U.S. citizens entering the U. S. may still have COVID-19-related restrictions. You can find those restrictions here.

If you’re not feeling well, please stay home for your safety and the safety of other participants and spectators.

Participant eligibility

All participants of the Marathon must be at least 16 years of age. All participants of the Marathon Relay, International Half-Marathon, or U.S.-Only Half-Marathon must be 14 years or older. There is no age limit on the 5K. Ages 4-12 are welcome for the Kids Fun Run. Racers must be older than 13 in the Competitive 1-Mile.

One parent/guardian is allowed to participate with a child in the (untimed) Kids Fun Run without a bib or registration. However, only those registered for the (timed) Competitive 1-Mile and the 5K will be allowed on the course.

If you are not a citizen of the U.S., it is strongly recommended that you verify the specific document requirements of both your country of residence and the countries you will be visiting. Non-U.S. citizens entering the U. S. may still have COVID-19-related restrictions. For additional information, click here.

An Enhanced Driver’s License (“EDL”) serves as both a driver’s license and border-crossing card. It is available through the Michigan Secretary of State’s office to Michigan residents who are also U.S. citizens. EDLs are also available in several other states and provinces, including Ontario. This optional card is convenient, affordable and the most flexible option for travelers to meet the tougher federal document requirements. (NOTE: an EDL does not replace a passport for air travel or travel outside of Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean.) To apply, residents may visit any Michigan Secretary of State branch office. The application process is relatively easy for those who already have a current driver’s license. Residents need only present proof of a valid Social Security number and U.S. citizenship in addition to their driver’s license. The process takes about four weeks. For more information on obtaining a Michigan EDL click here. If you are picking up your bib with an EDL, you need to present the actual license – the application with a receipt is not sufficient. When you are applying for an EDL, you must allow sufficient time to receive the proper license from the State of Michigan.

Most likely, yes. But you should be aware of your admissibility to Canada. In general, people are considered to be criminally inadmissible to Canada if they were convicted of an offense in Canada or were convicted of an offense outside of Canada that is considered a crime in Canada, such as a DUI. In order to enter Canada, these people must obtain Approval of Rehabilitation or a Temporary Resident Permit at a Canadian Consulate or Embassy. You can find more information here.

Race preparation

 START LINE: 

  • The Sunday races start at Fort and 2nd. From Gear Check, runners should take Michigan Avenue west to Lafayette. Corrals may be accessed from Lafayette on the north or Congress on the south.
  • International Marathon, Half Marathon, and Relay Corrals open at 6:15am and close at 6:55am.
  • AWD division start is at 6:58am. The main field begins at 7am
  • No late starts will be allowed. Please arrive with plenty of time to get your gear checked, use the bathroom, and arrive to your corral in a timely manner.
  • Corrals A-F will hold a mixture of International marathoners, international half marathoners, and relay Leg 1 participants. Corrals G and H will be international half marathoners only. No marathoners or relay participants will be allowed to start in corrals G and H. Please enter your corral under the sign with your assigned corral’s letter.
  • If you want to run with a friend in a different corral, you may drop BACK together, but runners may not advance forward. For example, a runner assigned to Corral B may choose to start in Corral C. A runner assigned to Corral C may not begin in Corral B. No marathoners may start in Corrals G and H.
  • US-Only Half Marathon begins at 10:30am. There are no corrals for the US-Only Half Marathon.
  • Only registered participants are allowed in the start corrals.
  • Gear Check is located on Monroe, just north of Campus Martius, and is open from 5:30am-2:30pm. This is near the finish line. There is no gear check at the start line so give yourself plenty of time to check gear and make it to the start line. Please use the clear bag provided to you at Expo.
  • Securely attach the Gear Check tab on your bib to your bag prior to arrival. Bibs must be presented to collect bags after the race.
  • Oversized items, such as luggage, WILL NOT be allowed. The Detroit Free Press Marathon is not responsible for lost items.

FINISH LINE:

  • The finish line is located on Woodward at Congress, south of Campus Martius.
  • Spectator viewing is located on both sides of the finish chute, south of Congress. No spectators are allowed on the course at any time, or in the secure zones immediately adjacent to the finish line.
  • Please select a location at which to meet friends and family after the event, such as Runner Reunite, located on the northwest side of Campus Martius. The area immediately surrounding the finish line and runner refresh will be highly congested – avoid planning a meetup in this area!
  • There is no stopping or standing in the Finish Chute. Please keep moving towards the exit at the end of Runner Refresh. This includes waiting for fellow runners to cross the line! There is no re-entry to this area once you have departed.
  • Runners will receive a mylar blanket, water, Gatorade Endurance, and a Finisher Medal in Runner Refresh. They will also be offered chocolate milk, a banana and a bag of various snacks including goldfish crackers, graham crackers, an apple, and a Clif Builder bar – all courtesy of our amazing sponsors including Absopure Water, Gatorade Endurance, United Dairy, Meijer, Envy and Clif! Thank you all!
  • Runner Reunite is located on Woodward on the northwest side of Campus Martius and serves as an easy location for runners to meet up with friends and family post-race.
  • No participants will be allowed to wait inside the finish chute or Runner Refresh zone for fellow runners.
  • Signs will be posted displaying letters of the alphabet. Choose which letter under which to reunite ahead of time.
  • Most importantly, have a pre-established plan, and stick to it! There will be thousands of people in the area race morning. Plan ahead.

All international (Marathon, International Half-Marathon, and Marathon Relay Leg 1) race packets MUST be picked up in person at the Health & Fitness Expo on either Friday or Saturday. Packets for the U.S.-Only Half-Marathon, the 5K, 1-Mile or the Kids Fun Run may be picked up in person at the expo, or may be picked up by someone else if they have a copy of your confirmation email, printed out. Finally, participants in the 5K, 1-Mile or the Kids Fun Run may pick up their packets on Saturday morning near the Start/Finish Line.

NOTE: Those running The Wonder or The Supreme MUST pick up their packets on Friday, Oct. 14 at the Health & Fitness Expo. Saturday pickup will not be allowed. Those running only The Temptation can pick up their packets on Friday at the expo or Saturday before the races.

Participants competing in an event conducted solely in the United States (U.S.-Only Half-Marathon, Marathon Relay Legs 2, 3, 4 or 5, 5K, 1-Mile or  Kids Fun Run) may have someone else pick up their race packet. The person picking up the packet must bring with them a printed copy of the participant’s confirmation email to show to our volunteers at the Health & Fitness Expo.

All participants competing in an event that crosses the U.S./Canadian border (Marathon, International Half-Marathon, or Marathon Relay Leg 1), regardless of citizenship, must show up in person in order to pick up their packet.  And they must bring their international credentials.

There will be no exceptions, and no picking up of packets on race day.

NOTE: Those running The Wonder or The Supreme MUST pick up their packets on Friday, October 13th at the Health & Fitness Expo. Saturday pickup will not be allowed. Those running only The Temptation can pick up their packets on Friday at the Expo or Saturday before the races.

Most of the Downtown Detroit hotels are located within walking distance of our start and finish lines.

You can reserve a hotel room through our official housing provider TriMar USA. We encourage all participants to book reservations through the link below and ONLY use these hotels that support our event.

Reserve A Room Now

We offer a long-sleeve technical shirt to all participants. Please note that our tech shirts do tend to run small. When you place your order for a shirt, we will make every effort to provide you the size requested. However, shirts are ordered months in advance of the event, based on estimates. Therefore, we may not have enough of every size available at the Health & Fitness Expo. We advise you to arrive early in order to guarantee your size.

The Start Line for the Marathon, both Half Marathons and the first leg of the Relay will be on Fort Street and Second Avenue. The closest address is 536 W. Fort Street which is a parking lot.

Race weekend details

The current start times for all events are as follows. These times are subject to change, so please check back here closer to race weekend:  

Saturday, Oct. 14

Competitive 1-Mile: 8:25 a.m.

5K: 8:50 a.m.

Meijer Kids Fun Run: 10 a.m. 

Sunday, Oct. 15

Disabilities Division: 6:58 a.m.

Full Marathon, Marathon Relay and International Half-Marathon: 7 a.m.

U.S.-Only Half-Marathon: 10:30 a.m. 

Note: All start times are subject to change.

The U.S. Half Marathon will start at 10:30am. 

The current start times for all events are as follows:  

Sunday, Oct. 15

Disabilities Division: 6:58 a.m.

Marathon, Marathon Relay and International Half-Marathon: 7 a.m.

U.S.-Only Half-Marathon: 10:30 a.m. 

Note: All start times are subject to change.

Yes. One parent or guardian may run with their child during the Kids Fun Run.

The entrance to the Ambassador Bridge is approximately 2 miles after the start. Our narrow running passage may become congested. We use a wave start, and we have carefully calculated the flow of runners to help minimize the impact. We ask that you be honest about your projected time, and that you start in your assigned wave. You must stay within the boundaries of the course as marked for your own safety, as well as for those around you.

We also ask you refrain from taking pictures or selfies while on the bridge. Sudden stops from participants impacts other runners and can slow everyone down. Be mindful of where and how often you stop along the course. If you need to slow down, please move to the side of the course.

The Ambassador Bridge will have restricted traffic on Sunday, Oct. 15.

The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel will close on Sunday’s race day. The closure will last from approximately 6:15-10 a.m.

Participants will get a clear plastic bag when they pick up their race packet at the Health & Fitness Expo. This is the only bag that can be used for gear check. No personal bags can be used.
There will only be one gear check location: on Monroe Street (northeast side of Campus Martius). This is where you will drop off and pick up your checked gear. This location is a few blocks away from where the start line corrals are located. Plan accordingly.
Gear check will be available from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Note: Don’t put anything of value in the bag, including keys, phone, wallet or money. The bags get moved around and smaller items may fall out.

A wave start is a technique that we use to send participants off in smaller groups (called “waves”), with a short time delay between each group. We currently place approximately 1,500 participants into 15 waves lettered A thru O, with three minutes in between. It takes 30 minutes to get everyone across the start line on Sunday. The idea is to stretch the field out over time, so that you will be able to get off to a better start, and so that you won’t be delayed at any possible bottlenecks along the way.

We will group you according to the projected time that you turned in when you registered. Since you will be wearing a timing computer chip, you are not penalized for a delayed start. Your net time (the time you finished minus the time that you crossed the start line) is your official event time and is used for all results and for Boston qualifying, except for cash awards. Participants competing for cash prizes will be placed in Wave A at the front of the line.

The start line closes at 7:30 a.m. No late starts are allowed.

We do have two timing clocks out on the marathon course – at mile 13.1 and mile 20 of the full Marathon. These clocks are set to the event’s gun time – or the start of Wave A. Other than those two, we do not have additional timing clocks out on the course, by design.

We have used a wave start technique since 2009. We send each wave off at 3-minute intervals, meaning that each wave has its own unique start time, as well as a unique event running time. Therefore, we only have two choices when setting the timing clocks – the clock time of day, which is applicable to everyone, but does not reflect your individual race running time; or the event gun time, which is the correct running time for the start of Wave A only.

In the long run, we figure that neither of these times are beneficial to the vast majority of participants. We trust that most participants are keeping their own personal time and pace using any number of technological devices available.

We use a wave technique to send off participants on race day. We currently place approximately 1,500 participants into 15 waves or corrals lettered A thru O, with three minutes in between. It takes 30 minutes to get everyone across the start line on Sunday. The idea is to stretch the field out over time, so that you will be able to get off to a better start, and so that you won’t be delayed at any possible bottlenecks along the way.

Your corral assignment can be found in the bottom right corner of your bib. It is assigned based on your predicted pace. If you are unhappy with your corral assignment, you can request a change at the main information booth in the packet pickup area at the Health & Fitness Expo. Please bring proof of pace with you to make any changes.

Your corral assignment also tells you where to enter the start/finish area. Someone will be checking corral assignments at each entrance.

All corrals should be accessed via Lafayette or Congress. Arrive to your corral on time. The start line closes at 7:30 a.m. No late starts are allowed.

Yes!

We have strategically placed fluid stations throughout our course for your hydration and enjoyment. Gatorade Endurance Orange Formula will also be available at every aid station. There will be two Clif Blok stations along the course at approximately miles 10 and 16.25. It’s our goal to set up each station consistently so that you know what to expect. Clif Blok flavors are Strawberry, Mountain Berry and Salted Watermelon all with No Caffeine.

We ask that you crush your cups after you have finished, and if possible, place them in the waste receptacles as you exit the fluid station. Be sure to thank the hundreds of volunteers at our 19 fluid stations along the course who are there to serve you and to cheer you on!

Yes – Hydration packs, hand held water bottles and/or hydration belts are allowed on the course.

Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor Tunnel no longer prohibits liquids from being carried by participants on the course. However, runners are discouraged from carrying large items on these portions of the course as they may be asked to either inspect or drop them. At the end of the day, it is up to the runner’s discretion.

Border agents may still stop, or confiscate, large hydration packs that look like backpacks as a security precaution. If you do decide to wear a hydration pack, please be mindful that the risk of being stopped along the border during the race, although low, will still be present.

Yes!

On Pace Race will be providing pacers for the Marathon, International Half-Marathon and U.S.-Only Half-Marathon. On Pace is a vibrant community of athletes who can be found pacing races throughout the United States. This is On Pace’s first time working with the Detroit Free Press Marathon. It has 76 members on its team, each helping other runners get to the finish line in their goal time.

You can connect with the pacers in the starting corrals. They will be in order of pace (faster pacers closer to the start) at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the race. Feel free to introduce yourself — and run with a pacer! On Pace’s strategy will be to run mainly even splits. They will be pacing the following times:

Marathon: 3:00, 3:05, 3:10, 3:15, 3:20, 3:25, 3:30, 3:35, 3:40, 3:50, 4:00, 4:15, 4:30, 4:45, 5:00, 5:15, 5:30, 5:45, 6:00, sweeper

International Half-Marathon: 1:30, 1:35, 1:40, 1:45, 1:50, 1:55, 2:00, 2:10, 2:15, 2:20, 2:30, 2:45, 3:00, 3:15, 3:30, sweeper

U.S.-Only Half-Marathon: 1:30, 1:35, 1:40, 1:45, 1:50, 1:55, 2:00, 2:10, 2:15, 2:20, 2:30, 2:45, 3:00, 3:15, 3:30

We will have Clif Bloks at two aid stations along the course. All athletes will pass our first nutrition station at just before mile 10 of the course. Participants in the marathon and US Only half marathon will also pass the nutrition station at approximately 16.5 of the marathon.

We strongly discourage the wearing of music devices. Participants must be alert to their surroundings and able to hear medical emergency vehicles, motorcycles, buses and official marathon vehicles. For your safety and the safety of those around you, we strongly urge you to run headphone-free.

For the safety of all of our participants, strollers, bicycles, pets or animals of any kind, rollerblades and skateboards are not permitted in any of our events, including the 5K and Kids Fun Run.

Unofficial support bikers are not allowed on the course.

We conduct our events under USA Track & Field (USATF) guidelines. We will use a qualified referee to help us settle any results concerns. We may exclude from competition anyone who has previously discredited themselves and the sport of running, or we may disqualify anyone who knowingly exhibits unsportsmanlike conduct.

All participants that would like to be eligible for cash prizes and age awards must adhere to our Anti-Doping Policy.

Most GPS systems will continue over the Ambassador Bridge, but drop out upon entering the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel and resume on the other side.

The following explanation is from the USA Track & Field Road Running Technical Council, which certified the course:

“GPS devices work by receiving signals from satellites. The quality of different GPS units can vary, but all of them can be affected by conditions such as buildings in urban environments or heavy overhead tree cover that interfere with reception of the satellite signals and can cause them to be inaccurate.

Race courses Certified by USATF are measured by a proven method that incorporates the calibration of measuring devices against a steel tape and are verified by multiple measurements.

Race courses are measured along a well-defined path called the “SPR”—the Shortest Possible Route that a runner can possibly run. Most runners don’t actually run the SPR, so the distance recorded by their GPS device will usually be longer than the certified length of the course, even though the course was properly measured along the SPR according to USATF rules.”

No, our course and finish line are closed to all non-participants. We share in the joy of your accomplishment as you near the finish line. But for your safety and the safety of fellow participants, we ask that you refrain from running in with others who are not part of the race.

We recommend you find your family and friends at Runner Reunite, located on the northwest side of Campus Martius and Woodward. There will be signs displaying letters of the alphabet; make plans to meet at the sign displaying the letter of your runner’s last name!

Note: No stopping or standing will be allowed in the finish chute. Once you finish the race, you must continue moving through the finish chute.

Below are the time limits:

  • Marathon or Marathon Relay: 6.5 hours
  • International Half-Marathon: 4 hours
  • U.S.-Only Half-Marathon: 3.5 hours
  • 5K: 1 hour 10 minutes

The Detroit People Mover will be in operation beginning 5:30 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 15. There is a 75-cent fare for each ride. The Michigan Ave, Fort/Cass and Huntington Place stations are the closest to the Start Line. Cadillac Square and the Financial District station are closest to the Finish Line. More information, including People Mover Stations, can be found here.

Transit Windsor will be operating the Tunnel Bus beginning at 5:15 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 15. Buses will depart from Windsor International Transit Terminal, 300 Chatham Street West, Windsor, Ont. Passengers will be dropped off near the Detroit side of the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. The same location will be used to return to Windsor. Three buses will be in use until 6:00 a.m. when the Tunnel will close to traffic. It is $10 (US or Canadian funds) each way. You must have exact change if paying in cash.

Saturday races: At the Start/Finish Line
Sunday races: All locations are noted by a red cross on all of the course maps. Medical Central is located near Campus Martius. There will also be a medical tent for minor injuries as you exit the finish line.

Registration for 2023 events is open! Register here. Ensure lowest prices by registering early!

Please check back for updates as the marathon weekend approaches.

Race overview

The next Detroit Free Press Marathon weekend will take place Oct. 13-15, 2023. The Marathon, International Half-Marathon, U.S.-Only Half-Marathon and Marathon Relay take place on Sunday, Oct. 15. The 5K, Competitive 1-Mile and Meijer Kids Fun Run happen on Saturday, Oct. 14.

2023 dates:

Friday, Oct. 13, 2023

Saturday, Oct.  14, 2023

Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023

2024 dates:

Friday, Oct. 18, 2024

Saturday, Oct.  19, 2024

Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024

Entry fees are non-refundable. That means that once we receive and accept your entry, you will not receive a refund if you cannot participate.

You may, however, transfer your entry to another year. Information about transfers can be found here.

Since the events are international, it is a federal offense to cross borders illegally. Therefore, do not give your number to another person. It is each participant’s responsibility to provide proper documentation for picking up their packet.

The Detroit Free Press Marathon, in accordance with management executives, city officials and local law enforcement, has the authority to cancel any of the events for emergency purposes, such as, but not limited to, inclement weather or threat of terrorism. If such emergency conditions force cancellation, refunds cannot be provided because funds will have been spent in preparation for the race.

If you cannot participate in the event you signed up for, more information about transfers and deferrals can be found here.

Yes, the Detroit Free Press Marathon is certified by USA Track and Field (USATF) officials each year to an exact standard that guarantees event distances are correct.

We are not a USATF sanctioned event. This means that it is not possible to set an American record on our course, nor is it possible to qualify for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials.

Yes, the Detroit Free Press Marathon is a Boston-qualifying race, and runners are eligible to apply if they run a qualifying time. The qualifying standard and the application process is covered at www.BAA.org.

Each year, we partner with charities for our Run for a Reason Program.

When you designate an official charity during registration, it does not mean that a portion of your registration fee goes to the designated charity; it instead means that you have the option to raise funds for your charity. In order to sign up with your chosen charity, check out the Official Charities section of our site.

Yes, finishers in all races receive a medal. They each have the same design, but varying sizes based on the distance of the race – smaller for 5K, larger for Marathon. Each medal also has a distinct ribbon based on the race distance.

The course records for our marathon:

Male
Greg Meyer, Boston
2:13:07 (1980)

Female
Elena Orlova, Russia
2:34:16 (2004)

Runners who break a course record will win an additional $500.

Our mid-October date generally provides participants with ideal running weather. A cool morning start and cool to mild mid-race temperatures with  limited precipitation.

Due to a lack of interest in the 2022 events, we will no longer be offering a virtual option for any of our races.

Registration

Registration is available online now through our registration partner, EnMotive. Sign up here.

The deadline to register for any international event is September 13, 2023, and October 7, 2023, for any U.S.-only events.

You may run the Marathon Relay as a team member, and run another individual, international event (Marathon or International Half-Marathon) concurrently, as long as you register for and pay the entry fee for both events. You must run Leg #1 of the Marathon Relay to avoid difficult timing issues. For this reason, you may not run the Marathon Relay and the U.S.-Only Half-Marathon together.

Your steps to success:

  • You will be given two separate bib numbers – one for the Marathon Relay and one for your individual event. You must wear both. Each relay team, overall, will receive one timing bib on a belt. This bib will start with leg 1 and will be passed between each leg runner.
  • You will run the 1st leg of the Relay, and will cross the timing mat at the start of Relay Leg 2. Once you have crossed the mat and Relay Leg 2 Runner has started, your Relay participation is over.
  • Just remove your relay timing bib on the belt and give it to the next leg runner. Remove the Relay bib from the front of your shirt and display your individual event bib.

Registration opens on Jan. 1, 2023.  The opening price remains in effect until Jan. 9, 2023. After that, prices rise roughly every 1 -2 months.  To view pricing details, click here.

If you deferred in 2022, you are already registered for 2023. An email will be sent to all those individuals with instructions on how to update your registration. If you have any questions about this process, drop us a line at support@freepmarathon.zendesk.com.

Transfers to new participants, change in distances or deferrals

Participants are able to change distances, or transfer to another participant  for a $20 fee, up until September 13 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Participants in our U.S.-Only races may continue transfer to another participant or change distances for a $25 fee, up until Oct. 7 at 11:59 p.m. EST, with some exceptions. Instructions for how to change your registration to another distance, how to transfer to another person or defer your registration through our registration partner EnMotive can be found below. The deadline for deferrals is October 7, 2023.

Transferring to a new participant

  1. Log into your EnMotive account here. Click ‘Registrations’ and find your 2023 registration for the Detroit Free Press Marathon.
  2. In the right corner of your registration, click on the three dots.
  3. Select Actions Transfer registration.
  4. Please enter the email address of the person you wish to transfer your registration to. This will then send an email with transfer information to the new registrant.
  5. The new registrant will be able to use the custom link sent to them for 48 hours. They will be charged the transfer fee.
  6. If the person does not transfer their registration within 48 hours, you will need to follow steps 1-4 again to get a new custom link sent out.
  7. The new registrant does not have to participate in the same race as the original participant. When they sign up with the custom link, they will be able to select a new event and just pay the difference in price between the two!

Note: EnMotive will not refund the registration fee for the original registration. Any compensation for the transferred registration needs to be handled outside of the platform.

Changing to a different distance

  1. Log into your EnMotive account here.  Click “Registrations” and find your current 2023 registration for the Detroit Free Press Marathon.
  2. In the right corner of your registration, click on the three dots.
  3. Select “View Registration.”
  4. Next to category click “edit.”
  5. Choose the event distance you would like to change to.
  6. You will need to answer all the necessary questions and pay the difference between the two events if you are upgrading as well as the category change fee.

Deferring your registration

Participants are able to defer their registration to the 2024 event for a $25 fee, up until October 7, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. EST. No deferrals will be accepted after this date. N0 deferrals will be accepted at the Health & Fitness Expo. Instructions for how to defer your registration can be found below.

  1. Log into your EnMotive Account here. Click “Registrations” and find your current 2023 registration for our event.
  2. In the right corner of your registration, click on the three dots.
  3. Select “Defer to another event.”
  4. From the event dropdown menu, select “2024 Detroit Free Press Marathon,” then follow the prompts to complete the deferral.
  5. Once your self-deferral is complete*, you will receive an email with your 2024 event information. You will not need to re-register when 2024 registration opens.

*For the Challenge Series, you will only have to self-defer one event in the series and pay the deferral fee at that time.  Then, you will need to reach out to request deferral(s) of other event(s) in the Challenge Series at no cost. Details below.

Supreme:

Wonder:

Temptation:

All registrations are non-refundable, but if you registered for the 2023 event and unfortunately are unable to participate on race day, you have a few options:

1. Transfer your registration to another individual.

2. Defer your registration to the 2024 event.

Instructions on transferring or deferring your registration can be found here.

You can confirm your 2023 race registration by looking up your name here.

To confirm your information, race distance and more, follow the steps below:

  1. Login to your EnMotive account, here
  2. Click Registrations
  3. Find the “2023 Detroit Free Press Marathon” event
  4. Click “View Registration”

Participants are able to modify their shirt size and pace time by following the below instructions:

  1. Login to your EnMotive account, here
  2. Click ‘‘My Account’’ in the upper right corner
  3. Scroll to the race registration that you need to update the size for (2023 Detroit Free Press Marathon)
  4. Click ‘‘View Registration’’
  5. To update race shirt size, click “edit” next to products. Size changes are not allowed for any purchased products. Please reach out to Running Lab if you would like to request a size change.
  6. To update estimated pace, click “edit” next to additional details
  7. Update and save!

Any other registration details must be updated by race staff at this time. Please contact us if this is necessary.

Note: Any edits to your distance/chosen race is considered a category change that will incur a change fee. Please visit our transfer and changes page for all information regarding switching your distance/race.

Below are step-by-step instructions to join an established relay team.

  1. You will begin registration here.
  2. Make sure there are no other registrations in your cart in the top right corner. If there are pending registrations in your cart, please complete them or remove them before moving forward with the next steps.
  3. Select Marathon Relay.
  4. Select the person participating from your EnMotive account profile and click next.
  5. Follow the flow of registration
  6. When you get to the Add Details page under Team section you will find and select your team name from the drop-down list.
  7. When prompted, please select one of the legs available.
  8. Once the leg is selected the correct questions for that leg will populate. You must answer those, click continue and it will take you to a billing/checkout page and show that you owe $0.00. You must answer all questions to bring the total down to $0.00.
  9. Finally, make sure you select “complete” from the billing page.

It is highly recommended that you purchase the EnMotive Protection Plan (Registration Insurance) as your entry fee is non-refundable.

The EnMotive Protection Plan may be purchased for a nominal fee when registering for any of our events. All policy information can be found here. The EnMotive Protection Plan typically covers approved medically related situations (see policy for details) but will not cover your registration fee if the event is canceled either by organizers or the government for incidents like COVID-19, inclement weather, etc.

The EnMotive Protection Plan cannot be purchased after registration and must be purchased while completing registration for any of our events.

COVID-19

On Sept. 26, 2022,  the Government of Canada announced the removal of all COVID-19-related entry restrictions, including testing, quarantine and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada, effective Oct. 1, 2022. The full announcement can be found here. This means U.S. citizens no longer face COVID-19-related restrictions when crossing the U.S. or Canadian borders.

Non-U.S. citizens entering the U. S. may still have COVID-19-related restrictions. You can find those restrictions here.

If you’re not feeling well, please stay home for the safety of other participants and spectators.

No, U.S.-Only Half-Marathon participants are not required to be vaccinated, regardless of citizenship status.

Non-U.S. citizens entering the U. S. may still have COVID-19-related restrictions. You can find those restrictions here.

If you’re not feeling well, please stay home for your safety and the safety of other participants and spectators.

Participant eligibility

All participants of the Marathon must be at least 16 years of age. All participants of the Marathon Relay, International Half-Marathon, or U.S.-Only Half-Marathon must be 14 years or older. There is no age limit on the 5K. Ages 4-12 are welcome for the Kids Fun Run. Racers must be older than 13 in the Competitive 1-Mile.

One parent/guardian is allowed to participate with a child in the (untimed) Kids Fun Run without a bib or registration. However, only those registered for the (timed) Competitive 1-Mile and the 5K will be allowed on the course.

If you are not a citizen of the U.S., it is strongly recommended that you verify the specific document requirements of both your country of residence and the countries you will be visiting. Non-U.S. citizens entering the U. S. may still have COVID-19-related restrictions. For additional information, click here.

An Enhanced Driver’s License (“EDL”) serves as both a driver’s license and border-crossing card. It is available through the Michigan Secretary of State’s office to Michigan residents who are also U.S. citizens. EDLs are also available in several other states and provinces, including Ontario. This optional card is convenient, affordable and the most flexible option for travelers to meet the tougher federal document requirements. (NOTE: an EDL does not replace a passport for air travel or travel outside of Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean.) To apply, residents may visit any Michigan Secretary of State branch office. The application process is relatively easy for those who already have a current driver’s license. Residents need only present proof of a valid Social Security number and U.S. citizenship in addition to their driver’s license. The process takes about four weeks. For more information on obtaining a Michigan EDL click here. If you are picking up your bib with an EDL, you need to present the actual license – the application with a receipt is not sufficient. When you are applying for an EDL, you must allow sufficient time to receive the proper license from the State of Michigan.

Most likely, yes. But you should be aware of your admissibility to Canada. In general, people are considered to be criminally inadmissible to Canada if they were convicted of an offense in Canada or were convicted of an offense outside of Canada that is considered a crime in Canada, such as a DUI. In order to enter Canada, these people must obtain Approval of Rehabilitation or a Temporary Resident Permit at a Canadian Consulate or Embassy. You can find more information here.

Race preparation

 START LINE: 

  • The Sunday races start at Fort and 2nd. From Gear Check, runners should take Michigan Avenue west to Lafayette. Corrals may be accessed from Lafayette on the north or Congress on the south.
  • International Marathon, Half Marathon, and Relay Corrals open at 6:15am and close at 6:55am.
  • AWD division start is at 6:58am. The main field begins at 7am
  • No late starts will be allowed. Please arrive with plenty of time to get your gear checked, use the bathroom, and arrive to your corral in a timely manner.
  • Corrals A-F will hold a mixture of International marathoners, international half marathoners, and relay Leg 1 participants. Corrals G and H will be international half marathoners only. No marathoners or relay participants will be allowed to start in corrals G and H. Please enter your corral under the sign with your assigned corral’s letter.
  • If you want to run with a friend in a different corral, you may drop BACK together, but runners may not advance forward. For example, a runner assigned to Corral B may choose to start in Corral C. A runner assigned to Corral C may not begin in Corral B. No marathoners may start in Corrals G and H.
  • US-Only Half Marathon begins at 10:30am. There are no corrals for the US-Only Half Marathon.
  • Only registered participants are allowed in the start corrals.
  • Gear Check is located on Monroe, just north of Campus Martius, and is open from 5:30am-2:30pm. This is near the finish line. There is no gear check at the start line so give yourself plenty of time to check gear and make it to the start line. Please use the clear bag provided to you at Expo.
  • Securely attach the Gear Check tab on your bib to your bag prior to arrival. Bibs must be presented to collect bags after the race.
  • Oversized items, such as luggage, WILL NOT be allowed. The Detroit Free Press Marathon is not responsible for lost items.

FINISH LINE:

  • The finish line is located on Woodward at Congress, south of Campus Martius.
  • Spectator viewing is located on both sides of the finish chute, south of Congress. No spectators are allowed on the course at any time, or in the secure zones immediately adjacent to the finish line.
  • Please select a location at which to meet friends and family after the event, such as Runner Reunite, located on the northwest side of Campus Martius. The area immediately surrounding the finish line and runner refresh will be highly congested – avoid planning a meetup in this area!
  • There is no stopping or standing in the Finish Chute. Please keep moving towards the exit at the end of Runner Refresh. This includes waiting for fellow runners to cross the line! There is no re-entry to this area once you have departed.
  • Runners will receive a mylar blanket, water, Gatorade Endurance, and a Finisher Medal in Runner Refresh. They will also be offered chocolate milk, a banana and a bag of various snacks including goldfish crackers, graham crackers, an apple, and a Clif Builder bar – all courtesy of our amazing sponsors including Absopure Water, Gatorade Endurance, United Dairy, Meijer, Envy and Clif! Thank you all!
  • Runner Reunite is located on Woodward on the northwest side of Campus Martius and serves as an easy location for runners to meet up with friends and family post-race.
  • No participants will be allowed to wait inside the finish chute or Runner Refresh zone for fellow runners.
  • Signs will be posted displaying letters of the alphabet. Choose which letter under which to reunite ahead of time.
  • Most importantly, have a pre-established plan, and stick to it! There will be thousands of people in the area race morning. Plan ahead.

All international (Marathon, International Half-Marathon, and Marathon Relay Leg 1) race packets MUST be picked up in person at the Health & Fitness Expo on either Friday or Saturday. Packets for the U.S.-Only Half-Marathon, the 5K, 1-Mile or the Kids Fun Run may be picked up in person at the expo, or may be picked up by someone else if they have a copy of your confirmation email, printed out. Finally, participants in the 5K, 1-Mile or the Kids Fun Run may pick up their packets on Saturday morning near the Start/Finish Line.

NOTE: Those running The Wonder or The Supreme MUST pick up their packets on Friday, Oct. 14 at the Health & Fitness Expo. Saturday pickup will not be allowed. Those running only The Temptation can pick up their packets on Friday at the expo or Saturday before the races.

Participants competing in an event conducted solely in the United States (U.S.-Only Half-Marathon, Marathon Relay Legs 2, 3, 4 or 5, 5K, 1-Mile or  Kids Fun Run) may have someone else pick up their race packet. The person picking up the packet must bring with them a printed copy of the participant’s confirmation email to show to our volunteers at the Health & Fitness Expo.

All participants competing in an event that crosses the U.S./Canadian border (Marathon, International Half-Marathon, or Marathon Relay Leg 1), regardless of citizenship, must show up in person in order to pick up their packet.  And they must bring their international credentials.

There will be no exceptions, and no picking up of packets on race day.

NOTE: Those running The Wonder or The Supreme MUST pick up their packets on Friday, October 13th at the Health & Fitness Expo. Saturday pickup will not be allowed. Those running only The Temptation can pick up their packets on Friday at the Expo or Saturday before the races.

Most of the Downtown Detroit hotels are located within walking distance of our start and finish lines.

You can reserve a hotel room through our official housing provider TriMar USA. We encourage all participants to book reservations through the link below and ONLY use these hotels that support our event.

Reserve A Room Now

We offer a long-sleeve technical shirt to all participants. Please note that our tech shirts do tend to run small. When you place your order for a shirt, we will make every effort to provide you the size requested. However, shirts are ordered months in advance of the event, based on estimates. Therefore, we may not have enough of every size available at the Health & Fitness Expo. We advise you to arrive early in order to guarantee your size.

The Start Line for the Marathon, both Half Marathons and the first leg of the Relay will be on Fort Street and Second Avenue. The closest address is 536 W. Fort Street which is a parking lot.

Race weekend details

The current start times for all events are as follows. These times are subject to change, so please check back here closer to race weekend:  

Saturday, Oct. 14

Competitive 1-Mile: 8:25 a.m.

5K: 8:50 a.m.

Meijer Kids Fun Run: 10 a.m. 

Sunday, Oct. 15

Disabilities Division: 6:58 a.m.

Full Marathon, Marathon Relay and International Half-Marathon: 7 a.m.

U.S.-Only Half-Marathon: 10:30 a.m. 

Note: All start times are subject to change.

The U.S. Half Marathon will start at 10:30am. 

The current start times for all events are as follows:  

Sunday, Oct. 15

Disabilities Division: 6:58 a.m.

Marathon, Marathon Relay and International Half-Marathon: 7 a.m.

U.S.-Only Half-Marathon: 10:30 a.m. 

Note: All start times are subject to change.

Yes. One parent or guardian may run with their child during the Kids Fun Run.

The entrance to the Ambassador Bridge is approximately 2 miles after the start. Our narrow running passage may become congested. We use a wave start, and we have carefully calculated the flow of runners to help minimize the impact. We ask that you be honest about your projected time, and that you start in your assigned wave. You must stay within the boundaries of the course as marked for your own safety, as well as for those around you.

We also ask you refrain from taking pictures or selfies while on the bridge. Sudden stops from participants impacts other runners and can slow everyone down. Be mindful of where and how often you stop along the course. If you need to slow down, please move to the side of the course.

The Ambassador Bridge will have restricted traffic on Sunday, Oct. 15.

The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel will close on Sunday’s race day. The closure will last from approximately 6:15-10 a.m.

Participants will get a clear plastic bag when they pick up their race packet at the Health & Fitness Expo. This is the only bag that can be used for gear check. No personal bags can be used.
There will only be one gear check location: on Monroe Street (northeast side of Campus Martius). This is where you will drop off and pick up your checked gear. This location is a few blocks away from where the start line corrals are located. Plan accordingly.
Gear check will be available from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Note: Don’t put anything of value in the bag, including keys, phone, wallet or money. The bags get moved around and smaller items may fall out.

A wave start is a technique that we use to send participants off in smaller groups (called “waves”), with a short time delay between each group. We currently place approximately 1,500 participants into 15 waves lettered A thru O, with three minutes in between. It takes 30 minutes to get everyone across the start line on Sunday. The idea is to stretch the field out over time, so that you will be able to get off to a better start, and so that you won’t be delayed at any possible bottlenecks along the way.

We will group you according to the projected time that you turned in when you registered. Since you will be wearing a timing computer chip, you are not penalized for a delayed start. Your net time (the time you finished minus the time that you crossed the start line) is your official event time and is used for all results and for Boston qualifying, except for cash awards. Participants competing for cash prizes will be placed in Wave A at the front of the line.

The start line closes at 7:30 a.m. No late starts are allowed.

We do have two timing clocks out on the marathon course – at mile 13.1 and mile 20 of the full Marathon. These clocks are set to the event’s gun time – or the start of Wave A. Other than those two, we do not have additional timing clocks out on the course, by design.

We have used a wave start technique since 2009. We send each wave off at 3-minute intervals, meaning that each wave has its own unique start time, as well as a unique event running time. Therefore, we only have two choices when setting the timing clocks – the clock time of day, which is applicable to everyone, but does not reflect your individual race running time; or the event gun time, which is the correct running time for the start of Wave A only.

In the long run, we figure that neither of these times are beneficial to the vast majority of participants. We trust that most participants are keeping their own personal time and pace using any number of technological devices available.

We use a wave technique to send off participants on race day. We currently place approximately 1,500 participants into 15 waves or corrals lettered A thru O, with three minutes in between. It takes 30 minutes to get everyone across the start line on Sunday. The idea is to stretch the field out over time, so that you will be able to get off to a better start, and so that you won’t be delayed at any possible bottlenecks along the way.

Your corral assignment can be found in the bottom right corner of your bib. It is assigned based on your predicted pace. If you are unhappy with your corral assignment, you can request a change at the main information booth in the packet pickup area at the Health & Fitness Expo. Please bring proof of pace with you to make any changes.

Your corral assignment also tells you where to enter the start/finish area. Someone will be checking corral assignments at each entrance.

All corrals should be accessed via Lafayette or Congress. Arrive to your corral on time. The start line closes at 7:30 a.m. No late starts are allowed.

Yes!

We have strategically placed fluid stations throughout our course for your hydration and enjoyment. Gatorade Endurance Orange Formula will also be available at every aid station. There will be two Clif Blok stations along the course at approximately miles 10 and 16.25. It’s our goal to set up each station consistently so that you know what to expect. Clif Blok flavors are Strawberry, Mountain Berry and Salted Watermelon all with No Caffeine.

We ask that you crush your cups after you have finished, and if possible, place them in the waste receptacles as you exit the fluid station. Be sure to thank the hundreds of volunteers at our 19 fluid stations along the course who are there to serve you and to cheer you on!

Yes – Hydration packs, hand held water bottles and/or hydration belts are allowed on the course.

Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor Tunnel no longer prohibits liquids from being carried by participants on the course. However, runners are discouraged from carrying large items on these portions of the course as they may be asked to either inspect or drop them. At the end of the day, it is up to the runner’s discretion.

Border agents may still stop, or confiscate, large hydration packs that look like backpacks as a security precaution. If you do decide to wear a hydration pack, please be mindful that the risk of being stopped along the border during the race, although low, will still be present.

Yes!

On Pace Race will be providing pacers for the Marathon, International Half-Marathon and U.S.-Only Half-Marathon. On Pace is a vibrant community of athletes who can be found pacing races throughout the United States. This is On Pace’s first time working with the Detroit Free Press Marathon. It has 76 members on its team, each helping other runners get to the finish line in their goal time.

You can connect with the pacers in the starting corrals. They will be in order of pace (faster pacers closer to the start) at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the race. Feel free to introduce yourself — and run with a pacer! On Pace’s strategy will be to run mainly even splits. They will be pacing the following times:

Marathon: 3:00, 3:05, 3:10, 3:15, 3:20, 3:25, 3:30, 3:35, 3:40, 3:50, 4:00, 4:15, 4:30, 4:45, 5:00, 5:15, 5:30, 5:45, 6:00, sweeper

International Half-Marathon: 1:30, 1:35, 1:40, 1:45, 1:50, 1:55, 2:00, 2:10, 2:15, 2:20, 2:30, 2:45, 3:00, 3:15, 3:30, sweeper

U.S.-Only Half-Marathon: 1:30, 1:35, 1:40, 1:45, 1:50, 1:55, 2:00, 2:10, 2:15, 2:20, 2:30, 2:45, 3:00, 3:15, 3:30

We will have Clif Bloks at two aid stations along the course. All athletes will pass our first nutrition station at just before mile 10 of the course. Participants in the marathon and US Only half marathon will also pass the nutrition station at approximately 16.5 of the marathon.

We strongly discourage the wearing of music devices. Participants must be alert to their surroundings and able to hear medical emergency vehicles, motorcycles, buses and official marathon vehicles. For your safety and the safety of those around you, we strongly urge you to run headphone-free.

For the safety of all of our participants, strollers, bicycles, pets or animals of any kind, rollerblades and skateboards are not permitted in any of our events, including the 5K and Kids Fun Run.

Unofficial support bikers are not allowed on the course.

We conduct our events under USA Track & Field (USATF) guidelines. We will use a qualified referee to help us settle any results concerns. We may exclude from competition anyone who has previously discredited themselves and the sport of running, or we may disqualify anyone who knowingly exhibits unsportsmanlike conduct.

All participants that would like to be eligible for cash prizes and age awards must adhere to our Anti-Doping Policy.

Most GPS systems will continue over the Ambassador Bridge, but drop out upon entering the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel and resume on the other side.

The following explanation is from the USA Track & Field Road Running Technical Council, which certified the course:

“GPS devices work by receiving signals from satellites. The quality of different GPS units can vary, but all of them can be affected by conditions such as buildings in urban environments or heavy overhead tree cover that interfere with reception of the satellite signals and can cause them to be inaccurate.

Race courses Certified by USATF are measured by a proven method that incorporates the calibration of measuring devices against a steel tape and are verified by multiple measurements.

Race courses are measured along a well-defined path called the “SPR”—the Shortest Possible Route that a runner can possibly run. Most runners don’t actually run the SPR, so the distance recorded by their GPS device will usually be longer than the certified length of the course, even though the course was properly measured along the SPR according to USATF rules.”

No, our course and finish line are closed to all non-participants. We share in the joy of your accomplishment as you near the finish line. But for your safety and the safety of fellow participants, we ask that you refrain from running in with others who are not part of the race.

We recommend you find your family and friends at Runner Reunite, located on the northwest side of Campus Martius and Woodward. There will be signs displaying letters of the alphabet; make plans to meet at the sign displaying the letter of your runner’s last name!

Note: No stopping or standing will be allowed in the finish chute. Once you finish the race, you must continue moving through the finish chute.

Below are the time limits:

  • Marathon or Marathon Relay: 6.5 hours
  • International Half-Marathon: 4 hours
  • U.S.-Only Half-Marathon: 3.5 hours
  • 5K: 1 hour 10 minutes

The Detroit People Mover will be in operation beginning 5:30 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 15. There is a 75-cent fare for each ride. The Michigan Ave, Fort/Cass and Huntington Place stations are the closest to the Start Line. Cadillac Square and the Financial District station are closest to the Finish Line. More information, including People Mover Stations, can be found here.

Transit Windsor will be operating the Tunnel Bus beginning at 5:15 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 15. Buses will depart from Windsor International Transit Terminal, 300 Chatham Street West, Windsor, Ont. Passengers will be dropped off near the Detroit side of the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. The same location will be used to return to Windsor. Three buses will be in use until 6:00 a.m. when the Tunnel will close to traffic. It is $10 (US or Canadian funds) each way. You must have exact change if paying in cash.

Saturday races: At the Start/Finish Line
Sunday races: All locations are noted by a red cross on all of the course maps. Medical Central is located near Campus Martius. There will also be a medical tent for minor injuries as you exit the finish line.