The Anchorage Mayor's Marathon and Half-Marathon, presented by ConocoPhillips Alaska, has a rich history. Once known as the Midnight Sun Mayor’s Marathon, the starting gun went off in the early evening, instead of the traditional morning start time in recent years. After all, Land of the Midnight Sun means just that…midnight sun! With the event taking place on the Saturday closest to summer solstice, roughly 22 hours of functional daylight illuminates Anchorage.
For 50 years, the Anchorage Mayor's Marathon, Half-Marathon, Solstice Classic, and relay event has been a summer solstice tradition attracting runners from all over the world. Hosting an event of this nature is a significant undertaking, which is led by a partnership between the Municipality of Anchorage Parks and Recreation Department and the University of Alaska Anchorage Athletic Department. Race proceeds help support the MOA Parks and Recreation Department, which is responsible for beautifying parks, natural areas, and operating community recreation programs for all ages and abilities in Alaska's largest city. Race proceeds also help support the UAA Athletic Department and its 160 student-athletes, who represent the University and Anchorage community in pursuit of academic and athletic excellence.
The finish line at Delaney Park Strip is just blocks away from the heart of downtown Anchorage, which is full of summer activity, great eats, and unique shopping. Toast your success at a nearby brewery and replace all those burned calories at one of Anchorage’s many fine restaurants, food trucks, or other local eats.
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