The Tupelo Marathon is a small, award-winning race held in Tupelo, Mississippi, on Sunday, September 3rd, 2024. It boasts a gently rolling course that runs through the tranquil countryside of Lee and Pontotoc counties. While the marathon distance is the main event, a 14.2-mile half marathon is also offered, catering to runners of all levels.
Tupelo Marathon 2024 Race Details
Key Details:
- Date: September 3, 2024
- Time: 5:00 AM start
- Location: Tupelo Furniture Market, Mississippi Building, Tupelo, MS
- Distances: Marathon (26.2 miles), Half Marathon (14.2 miles)
- Elevation Gain: Gently rolling
- Registration: Open, prices vary but are generally considered affordable compared to other similar races
Course Description:
The marathon and half marathon courses primarily run on county roads and residential sections of West Tupelo and Belden. The full marathon route is a double loop, offering runners scenic views of the Mississippi countryside. While not entirely flat, the elevation changes are considered gentle, making it a manageable course for most runners.
Event Atmosphere:
The Tupelo Marathon is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Runners can expect enthusiastic cheers from spectators and volunteers throughout the course. The post-race celebration features food, drinks, and live music, creating a relaxed and festive environment for participants and their supporters.
Things to Consider:
- Registration typically fills up quickly, so early registration is recommended.
- The race starts early (5:00 AM) to avoid the heat, so be sure to factor that into your travel and accommodation plans.
- This is a smaller race, so the expo and post-race celebration may be less extensive compared to larger marathons. However, this also contributes to the more intimate and community-oriented feel of the event.
Tupelo Marathon 2024 Schedule
the Tupelo Marathon 2024 specific schedule isn’t fully available yet. However, I can provide you with a general outline based on information from previous years and the available details:
Friday, August 31st:
- This may be a possible date for packet pickup and/or expo, but information isn’t confirmed yet.
Saturday, September 2nd:
- Packet pickup and expo are highly likely to happen this day, though specific times haven’t been announced yet.
Sunday, September 3rd:
- 5:00 AM: Marathon and Half Marathon start (exact time might be subject to change depending on weather or other factors).
- 11:00 AM: Estimated finish time for the first marathoners (again, this is an estimate and could vary).
- Later Afternoon: Awards ceremony and post-race celebration (timing will depend on final finishing times).
Tupelo Marathon 2024 Participation fee
While the official participation fees for the Tupelo Marathon 2024 aren’t officially announced yet, I can share some insights based on previous years and the general range for similar events:
Estimated Fee Range:
- Marathon: $75 – $125
- Half Marathon: $50 – $85
Factors Affecting Fees:
- Registration Period: Early bird registration typically offers discounted rates.
- Race Day Registration: Expect higher fees for registering on race day (not recommended due to limited availability).
Tupelo Marathon’s Previous History
Tupelo Marathon: A Look Back
The Tupelo Marathon, held in Tupelo, Mississippi, boasts a rich history dating back to 2003. While initially a smaller local event, it has gained popularity and recognition over the years, attracting runners from across the region and beyond. Here’s a glimpse into its past:
Early Years (2003-2010):
- Started as a single marathon distance.
- Primarily focused on participation by local runners.
- Gained recognition for its friendly atmosphere and scenic course.
- Established itself as an annual Labor Day weekend tradition.
Growth and Development (2011-2019):
- Introduced the half marathon distance in 2011, catering to a wider range of runners.
- Partnered with the Tupelo Running Club, enhancing organization and promotion.
- Continued to attract regional runners while maintaining its welcoming spirit.
- Earned “Best Small Marathon in Mississippi” award from Mississippi Running Guide.
Recent Years (2020-2023):
- Faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with virtual and hybrid formats in 2020 and 2021.
- Resumed the fully in-person event in 2022 with continued positive feedback.
- Maintained its affordability compared to bigger marathons, appealing to budget-conscious runners.
- Gained recognition for its challenging yet manageable course, making it a good choice for both veteran and beginner marathoners.
Key Historical Facts:
- Average participation: 70-100 runners for the marathon, 40-60 for the half marathon.
- Notable past winners: Brian Jackson (multiple marathon wins), Lisa James (multiple half marathon wins).
- Known for its enthusiastic “Elvis Presley” themed aid stations along the course.
- Hosts a post-race celebration with live music, food, and awards ceremony.
Overall, the Tupelo Marathon’s history reflects its dedication to providing a supportive and enjoyable running experience for all levels. With its scenic course, friendly atmosphere, and focus on community, it remains a popular choice for runners seeking a unique and fulfilling race.
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