What
The GO! St. Louis Marathon was first organized in 2000 and has since expanded to encompass multiple races for all age groups and abilities. The race gained even more popularity after using the Arch Ground on the riverfront as its stage, and in 2018 will once again being at the historic Gateway Arch. Runners get to experience the beauty of both Illinois and Missouri as the marathon course takes them on a path that winds by Soulard, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, Tower Grove Park, Forest Park. Racers and race supporters are able to see a variety of iconic neighborhoods.
Participants receive a variety of swag, including a personalized bib, event shirt, and a finisher’s medal. Marathon participants must be at least 16 years old, but there are other races available all weekend long for athletes of all ages, including a half marathon, marathon relay, 7K, 5K, Children’s Fun Run and Mature Mile. All racers must maintain a minimum pace of 14:52. The GO! St. Louis Marathon is a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon. The marathon features Big River Running Company as its training partner, and you can find a variety of useful materials and information through them, including training programs for different types of races.
Racers can pick up their packets at the Health & Fitness Expo located at Emerson Performance Center at Harris Stowe University. Each racer may pick up one additional packet for another racer if necessary, but a Packet Pickup Authorization Form must be completed beforehand.
When: April 8, 2018
Where: St. Louis, MO
How: Register HERE
What Else?:
There will be entertainment along the way, including a special Crown Candy Chocolate station at Mile 6. Don’t forget about finish line food featuring famous St. Louis specialties such as Pasta House Toasted Ravioli and Ted Drewes Frozen Custard. There will also be a lively after party where you can experience a live local band.
Racers and supporters alike can attend the GO! St. Louis Marathon & Family Fitness events all weekend long, including the Health & Fitness Expo, which is open 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on April 6 and 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on April 7. Athletes may wish to take some time either before or after the race to visit the famous Gateway Arch, which is the tallest man-made monument in the U.S. at 630 feet. The area features riverboat cruises, a museum, and even a tram ride to the top.
Racers’ times are tracked with a tag on their racing bibs. There are different corrals and waves with different starting times, and there will also be pace teams to help athletes maintain the minimum 14:52 pace for every race. Athletes in wheelchairs are eligible for the marathon but must wear helmets and stay to the right of the road. Chairs with hand cranks are not allowed.
