Celebrating its 20th year, the Myrtle Beach Marathon has grown into a favorite event for runners across the country for a variety of reasons. For both first-timers trying to complete their inaugural 26.2-miler and veteran runners looking to qualify for major events like the Boston Marathon, the flat, fast racecourse provides a nice opportunity to conquer the challenge and post a good time. For others, it's a chance to have a good time while exploring the Grand Strand's many attractions, shops, restaurants and entertainment venues while also running or supporting your loved ones who do.
Thanks to a scheduling switch that moves the race ahead on the calendar to the first weekend in March, this year's Myrtle Beach Marathon and its companion events will allow many runners to turn their running trip into a spring break retreat. The average Grand Strand temperatures for that time of year see highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s – ideal conditions to avoid overheating or overcooling. Early March also brings the first signs of spring on the Grand Strand – both in natural beauty and on the local social scene. Guests can go for a nice walk on the beach by day and later go out for a fun night on the town.
But perhaps the biggest reasons runners love the Myrtle Beach Marathon is the same reason millions of vacationers come to this corner of the Carolina coast – the beach. The marathon course features about 10 miles of oceanfront running – from the towering dunes of the Ocean Forest neighborhood, past the Golden Mile of private beach homes and through the heart of the downtown district past The Breakers. Located at the midpoint of the 26.2-mile layout, the Breakers is the perfect place for guests to gather along the sidewalks and cheer for friends and family members before heading to the finish line about 1 mile away. The after-party at the House of Blues features live music, food, drinks and an awards ceremony.
Best of all, runners don't have to go the full distance to get in on the action. The Myrtle Beach Marathon also offers the Half-Marathon – a 13.1-mile route through the heart of Myrtle Beach. Running teams can compete in the Marathon Relay, which requires each member to cover a near-equal distance of about 6.5 miles. The Grande Dunes 5K will be held Friday night, March 3, with a sunset jog around the upscale community and marina. The 1-mile Family Fun Run will take place at the same time and venue, and an after-party for both races will be held at the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes. The Myrtle Beach Marathon Expo will be open all three days at the new Myrtle Beach Sports Center, which is located just two blocks away from The Breakers Myrtle Beach Resort.
Whether you come for the challenge or the exercise, or just to have a good time rooting on a loved one, The Breakers is the place to stay for the ultimate Myrtle Beach Marathon experience. Book your spot in the race and your room on the oceanfront today – and we’ll look forward to welcoming you to The Breakers!
