Video: Eugene Marathon 2024 race kicks off outside Hayward Field
Runners hit the course as the 2024 Eugene Marathon starts outside Hayward Field at the University of Oregon.
One of the biggest events in Tracktown, USA, is coming up this weekend.
The Eugene Marathon, half marathon and 5K are all sold out, with more than 14,000 people signed up to participate. Whether you’re racing through the city, cheering from the sidelines or simply a Eugene resident looking to avoid the crowds, here’s your guide to navigating marathon weekend.
What is the Eugene Marathon?
The Eugene Marathon is a 26.2-mile race held every spring in Eugene. The weekend event also features a 13.1-mile half marathon, the Eugene 5K and the Duck Dash for kids. This year’s marathon weekend runs April 25–27 and marks the second consecutive year that all races have sold out.
When do the races start?
Eugene 5K: 8 a.m. on Saturday.
Duck Dash: 9:30 a.m. on Saturday.
Half Marathon: 7 a.m. on Sunday.
Marathon: 7 a.m. on Sunday.
Where is the marathon course?
The marathon will take runners through many of the city’s iconic parks and trails. On the marathon course, runners will start at Agate and 17th Street and make their way through the south Eugene neighborhood to Amazon Park.
Then, they will loop through the South Amazon Running Trail and down to the Willamette, where they will run down Main Street in Springfield, through Alton Baker Park until they cross at the Owosso bridge. On their way back into the city, runners will go through Skinner Butte Park and then to the University of Oregon campus. The race will finish at Hayward Field.
Where can I park for the Eugene Marathon?
Getting to the starting line might be trickier than the actual race for some. The Eugene Marathon will not be providing any specialty parking near Hayward Field on Sunday. Event-goers should note that parking is limited, and violators will be subject to towing. There is street parking available and UO parking lots are free on Sundays.
The safest bet will be to bike to the event or park downtown and take a race-day shuttle to Hayward Field. Pre-race shuttles will run every ten minutes from 5:30 a.m. to 6:40 a.m. The Graduate Eugene, Valley River Inn Parking Lot, and Hutton Street and Kruse Way are all shuttle spots that will bring runners to Hayward Field. Post-race shuttles will run from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. from Hayward Field back to the hotels.
If I’m not running, what should I do on race day?
If you are looking to support a friend or family member who is running, or be a part of the general excitement of the day, marathon officials have highlighted points of interest in their event guide for the weekend. Hayward Field, Hideaway Bakery, and Main Street Springfield are all points of interest where onlookers can watch the race and maybe even enjoy a cup of coffee or a pastry.
The Eugene Marathon also recommends renting a PeaceHealth bike to explore the city during Marathon weekend and get from one viewing point to another.
Where can I show my bib for deals after the marathon?
This year, runners will be able to show their bibs or volunteer shirts during race weekend to receive exclusive deals from restaurants, shops and tasting rooms around the city. Businesses participating in the “Show Your Bib” project are listed below.
Cornucopia: 10% off.
Eugene Burger Company: 10% off.
Gilt & Gossamer: 10% off.
Handel’s Homemade Icecream: 10% off.
Made in Oregon: free eco shopping bag available with purchase.
MECCA: 10% off.
Sassy Kitchen and Gifts: 10% off.
Title Nine: 15% off.
Will Leather Goods: 10% off.
Samantha Pierotti is the food, drinks and “things to do” reporter for The Register-Guard. With tips on restaurants and local happenings, you can reach her via email at spierotti@gannett.com.
