WHAT
What started as a single marathon in 1973 has become a St. Patrick’s Day tradition that sees more than 25,000 participants over the course of a weekend. The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend is a three-day event and is home to sports and fitness expos, relay races, fitness challenges, and, of course, a marathon or two. Whether you want to run a full marathon, a half marathon, an 8K or a shorter race, you are sure to find something you’ll love at this event.
The marathon itself is the oldest continuously running race in Virginia Beach. A fast, flat course, it is the perfect event for a first-time marathon runner or for an experienced runner hoping to beat his or her own best record. Entertainment, plenty of people cheering you on and a finish line celebration are all part of the fun of this marathon.
The course begins at the Virginia Beach resort area and winds north through some of the most beautiful and welcoming neighborhoods in the area. From there, runners wind along Shore Drive and First Landing State Park before passing the Joint Expeditionary Base, Ft. Story. The route passes by the Cape Henry Lighthouse, which is the oldest one in the country. Next, the marathon course heads south again, back into the resort area via Rudee Inlet and the Camp Pendleton military base. The race concludes at the Virginia Beach Boardwalk where participants can join in on the celebratory fun.
WHEN: March 18, 2018
WHERE: Virginia Beach, Virginia
HOW: Register at https://www.athlinks.com/event/3175
WHAT ELSE?
The 2018 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon is a qualifying race for the 2019 Boston Marathon. You must be at least 16 years old by game day to participate and you have seven hours to complete the course. Runners can meet at 42nd Street and Atlantic Avenue at 7:30 a.m.
Be sure to check out some of the many other events throughout the weekend. Murphy’s Irish Stew and Yuengling Beer will be available (must be 21 years old). Course entertainment, bands, t-shirts and sports and fitness expos are just some of the other fun events. This race is walker-friendly.
Don’t forget to sign up for some of the other races, either. The Yuengling Shamrock Half Marathon is perfect for new runners who aren’t quite ready to dedicate themselves to the longer race. Other options include the 8K race, which is available for young adults to run as well, or the Dolphin Challenge or Whale Challenge. Each of these challenges combines two or more of the marathons and races to give yourself a goal to achieve. Do you have kids with you for the weekend? They can run the final mile or even do the Leprechaun Dash to participate in the races without becoming too overwhelmed or tired. No matter which races you run, it is sure to be fun and healthy for the whole family.
For accommodation needs in Virginia Beach during this event, please reach out to us at Coastal Accommodations! We have two rentals left for March 15-18. We’d love to host anyone, come one come all!