Named as one of Runner’s World “Bucket List: 10 Great Marathons for First-Timers” in 2017, come fill your bucket at the annual Little Rock Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and Little Rockers Kids Marathon. A race with personality, loads of southern hospitality, tons of caring volunteers, a running or walking …
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Named as one of Runner’s World “Bucket List: 10 Great Marathons for First-Timers” in 2017, come fill your bucket at the annual Little Rock Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and Little Rockers Kids Marathon. A race with personality, loads of southern hospitality, tons of caring volunteers, a running or walking tour through the scenic streets of Arkansas’ capital city and an impressive finisher’s medal. We are a race for every pace. We love walkers, 8-hour time limit for Marathon race.
Little Rock Marathon 5K & 10K – Saturday, 7:30 am
Little Rockers Kids Marathon – Saturday, 11:00 am
Little Rock Marathon Half Marathon & Marathon – Sunday, 8:00 am
The Little Rock Marathon Health & Fitness Expo is the kick-off the marathon weekend at the Statehouse Convention Center in downtown Little Rock. The Expo offers vendors in health, beauty, fitness, apparel, nutrition, and the course overview will be offered. With a focus on the latest in running, fitness and lifestyle improvements, the Health and Fitness Expo is the ultimate opportunity to showcase your company’s products and services to athletes, families, sports enthusiasts, and guests.
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The Medal isn't the only thing.
Yea, it's a great big heavy medal, but it's a well put on race through Little Rock. The central thought is that a race is best that allows everyone to … MORE
Yea, it’s a great big heavy medal, but it’s a well put on race through Little Rock. The central thought is that a race is best that allows everyone to participate, and Little Rock really takes that to heart. Pacers for up to 8 hours, medals for those who covet the bling, and a great on and off course experience, and you have a race that is highly recommended for the first time marathoner. If you only do one marathon, Little Rock needs to be considered for that spot.
What a groovy marathon!
I enjoyed every moment—from the marathon expo and its location to the hilly course scattered with historic sites to the interactive and entertaining aid station staff and energetic spectators. Make … MORE
I enjoyed every moment—from the marathon expo and its location to the hilly course scattered with historic sites to the interactive and entertaining aid station staff and energetic spectators. Make sure you stay at the Little Rock Marathon which is next to the marathon start/finish line. The finisher medal is the biggest I’ve ever seen, holly molly! This is one groovy marathon and I wholeheartedly recommend it!
Love Little Rock
This race was overall great. My performance was not the best due to a hip injury and I didn’t get to finish the full 26.2. Of course the medal was … MORE
This race was overall great. My performance was not the best due to a hip injury and I didn’t get to finish the full 26.2. Of course the medal was amazing and heavy. Ready to try this one again.
Lived up to the hype...
Randomly set my sights on this race last year...and registered w/o any travel plan. I knew that the race had a great reputation (beyond just the ginormous medal) and thought … MORE
Randomly set my sights on this race last year…and registered w/o any travel plan. I knew that the race had a great reputation (beyond just the ginormous medal) and thought it’d a fun weekend trip. Overall had a great weekend…loved the expo, some great deals and everyone was very friendly.
The city is very walkable, so easy to get around. Nice race shirt, and well, the medal…it’s fab!
Race-day – loved having indoor access to bathrooms in the convention center, and overall just a smooth process. Lots of friendly folks in the starting corrals too. I had a basic idea of the course from the maps, and found it enjoyable. Lots of great crowd support with fans, DJs, etc. Going back over the bridge at apx. mile 7 was a little challenging (and humbling, as I heard the 1st male finisher cross the finish line, lol), but I kept plugging away. A few hills, but overall really enjoyed it. Mile 12 was great, downhill and then a smooth shot to the finish.
And the post-finish area was well organized and then having some tables to sit and gather yourself were nice as well. So glad I went!
Little Rock Delivers Again
Pros: Huge medals, beyond well run, pacers, early start (8 hour cut off!), ample water and Gu on course, support throughout, and finish line beer and pasta. Cons: You have … MORE
Pros: Huge medals, beyond well run, pacers, early start (8 hour cut off!), ample water and Gu on course, support throughout, and finish line beer and pasta.
Cons: You have to pay for pictures (and they’re pricey) – otherwise about as good on an event as you can hope for
Awesome time! Great support.
The race was a great time! The course was very tough, lots of rolling hills and the second half really was difficult. Mike 15-18 we're extremely rough. Mike 25 also … MORE
The race was a great time! The course was very tough, lots of rolling hills and the second half really was difficult. Mike 15-18 we’re extremely rough. Mike 25 also had a crazy hill. Kinda boring on Mile 19-24 as its an out back.
BUT…. the race production was excellent. The people were fantastics, the expo (though small), was well put together. The finish line was great which led you back INSIDE to the expo which was a great tough. Clearly, Little Rock looks forward to this event every year and they put on a great show. Happy to run it! Also, like everyone says, the medal was massive!
Peace, Love & Running!
As always Little Rock knows how to bring it. The bling, the race swag, crowd support, etc. It was good to see so many returning vendors to the race expo. … MORE
As always Little Rock knows how to bring it. The bling, the race swag, crowd support, etc. It was good to see so many returning vendors to the race expo. As always packet pick up was a breeze. I was able to purchase a few running goodies at the expo. Race morning temps were awesome! Arkansas weather is always a toss up but this whole weekend was just perfect for running. I have run the 10k twice in the past. I felt strong and completed the race in under the time goal I had for myself considering my training. One perk about it you can sign up for training emails from LR and they offer them for free! Some other races you have to pay for that perk. I plan on being back next year!
Well Run
Very well run race. I loved that it started at a convention center so there was plenty of indoor bathrooms for pre and post-race and it was inside! It was … MORE
Very well run race. I loved that it started at a convention center so there was plenty of indoor bathrooms for pre and post-race and it was inside! It was lovely to have real chairs and tables to relax at pre-race, not having to be out in the elements was a nice though (it was great weather but this could have been clutch)
They have pacers for the marathon and since the half and full are together for the first ~11 miles it was nice to have company and steady pacing. The water stops did get a bit crowded at times and there could have been more of them along the course since it was rather warm.
Course support was great for the half. Lots of fans and families out cheering and even handing out oranges, beer, mimosas, water, etc. It was fun!
Overall a relatively flat course for the half.
Post race was well organized! There were so many volunteers making sure people were ok and directing you where to go. My only complaint is I needed water closer to the finish line (it wasnt that far but I was thirsty). The post race food option was pasta with marinara sauce which I thought was kinda unusual but it was also kinda perfect. The water came in a reusable sports bottle rather than the typical single use plastic bottle so I also appreciated that.
The medal…wow…HUGE! It actually hurt to wear it around the expo; it was so heavy.
Overall, a great race in a nice town. On my quest to run a race in each state, I don’t like to repeat states but this was one race that I might actually consider doing again.
Fun but my post COVID body sure felt it.
So nice to feel the fun of an expo pre-pandemic style. So much fun!!! Got me in the mood. They described the course accurately, the hill being a killer. This … MORE
So nice to feel the fun of an expo pre-pandemic style. So much fun!!! Got me in the mood. They described the course accurately, the hill being a killer. This was to be my 46th state for my 50th quest, fortunately I figured out to get myself moving to make it in the time by mile 19, before being taken off the course. I was able to complete it by the skin of my teeth. If I would’ve known how Covid in January would’ve affected my breathing I would’ve signed up for the early start and walked the majority. I’m a slow runner, but have never taken that long to finish.
Fortunately the volunteers were so helpful and encouraging right up until the very end. I didn’t feel like they were rushing to close things down. Beads, lipstick, pins, shots all there to enjoy!!! Then the medal… well we all know the medal!
The post race food was blah, but all I care about is the chocolate milk (which was there!!) but something pastry or bread type would’ve been nice.
Such a great event. Little Rock sure embraces this race. I wish I could’ve performed better, but I’m just glad it is done.
Good course and cool race experience
First time I've traveled for a race where it felt like everyone was in town for the same reason. Definitely a big event for LR. Production was great and all … MORE
First time I’ve traveled for a race where it felt like everyone was in town for the same reason. Definitely a big event for LR. Production was great and all the locals got into it.
Expo was significant and swag was good. A purple running tech shirt! Nice break from standard colors. Race day was great. Only complaint is I would have loved an earlier start than 8AM. Huge throng on people under the bridge and the MC was hyping everyone up. All and all a great race experience and deserving of the fame. The hike up to Hillcrest near the middle sucked.
Great race
Awesome race and would recommend for sure. Good sized expo that seemed to have a little of everything if you forgot something or just looking for some deals. Pre race … MORE
Awesome race and would recommend for sure. Good sized expo that seemed to have a little of everything if you forgot something or just looking for some deals. Pre race area had a great atmosphere and lots of music Course had a couple of hills but nothing crazy and was lined with spectators more than I thought there was going to be. Only small complaint about the whole day was the water spots were a little more spread out than usual it seemed and they weren’t very big imo. Other than that, no complaints at all.
Sixties Themed Marathon
This was the second time I ran Little Rock, but the first time I ran the marathon (did the half in 2020). Ran it with my dad who is a … MORE
This was the second time I ran Little Rock, but the first time I ran the marathon (did the half in 2020). Ran it with my dad who is a slower runner. The only thing we were disappointed with was that they basically ran out of food if you finished from 5:50 on. All they had was potato chips and soda. Other than they, it was great weather and, of course, a great medal. The hills on the back end of the course are modest. This is where you get a lot of your elevation from. I was also impressed by the course support throughout the race. There were tons of volunteers handing out fuel. I think I counted 16 water stations in total. Would definitely recommend to a beginner marathoner.
Great Race in Arkansas
I really enjoyed the Little Rock Marathon. The race is on a Sunday. The Expo was at the local convention center. It was decent size. The process was quick and … MORE
I really enjoyed the Little Rock Marathon. The race is on a Sunday. The Expo was at the local convention center. It was decent size. The process was quick and easy. The bib came with a nice t-shirt and small little poster. Race was at 8am. We had perfect weather. Sunny and low 54 high 74. I doubt you will have crazier weather in early march outside of rain. Temperature rise it should be fine. You actually meet inside the convection center before you went outside. Only race were I ever had that. It was nice you could use indoor bathrooms. The first 7 miles you go across the river. Outside the bridge pretty flat. Nothing to interesting. Then you go across the city. You go through some really cool sites like the State Capital. Around mile 11-12 is when the half marathoners cut off from the full. However, this is when the elevation starts. Mile 13-18 is a pretty steady inclined. It is tough. So be prepared for those hills. Around mile 18 you go into this wooded area for a couple miles and it is a big downhill. So be carful on that. Mile 19-23 was my least favorite part. You basically run along side a golf course. So you have no shade. Nothing to interesting. I personally had some struggles during this time. Last 3 are nice again running through the city to the finish line witch is the same as the start line. The Volunteers on the course were amazing. There were so many aid stations. ( I think lots were unofficial). Great crowd support and aid stations. When you cross the line you go back in the convention center. That’s when you get food and this Medal. Let me tell you. This medal is huge. Its about the size of 5 regular ones. I have done 6 full and 3 half. This one is the one that stands out. Its heavy, big and so cool. Very unique. Overall a great marathon. If your trying to do 50 states. This is the one you have to do in Arkansas
Ginormous Medal and nice course!
Overall, I was very impressed with this race and Little Rock. I especially enjoy mid-size marathons in which the race is a large draw for the city. Little Rock was … MORE
Overall, I was very impressed with this race and Little Rock. I especially enjoy mid-size marathons in which the race is a large draw for the city. Little Rock was very welcoming for racers and I experienced nice hospitality throughout my stay. The medal is famous (legendary) for being one of the largest and it did not disappoint! The course route went by several notable/historic sites including the Arkansas Capitol, the Governor’s mansion, and Little Rock Central High School. I actually enjoyed the second half more than the first which is rare for me in marathons. The race organization was top-notch and the food and after party is one the best!
Do it for the medal!
I'll be honest, this race was on my bucket list just for the medal and did it ever meet my expectations. Naturally I had to do the full because the … MORE
I’ll be honest, this race was on my bucket list just for the medal and did it ever meet my expectations. Naturally I had to do the full because the half medal is half as big and that just wouldn’t cut it. And when I say big, I mean the medal is bigger than my head and weighs about 4lbs!
The course was good, the view was ok, pretty standard for a marathon. The weather didn’t cooperate and it was wicked humid leading me to dry heave at the finish but when does mother nature ever cooperate.
The atmosphere was AMAZING. So many people out cheering, communion on the run and a lipstick stop at mile 26!
If you are a medal addict like me, this race is for you!
Loved running Little Rock Half Marathon
Very Well Organized, Expo had some great vendors and the Medal was Awesome! Very impressive and huge! The finish line was packed with lines of great food and drink. We … MORE
Very Well Organized, Expo had some great vendors and the Medal was Awesome! Very impressive and huge! The finish line was packed with lines of great food and drink. We stayed at Downtown RV Park and rode our bikes to the Expo! There was a chance of rain but turned out to be a beautiful day for a run!
Absolutely Awesome! So Much Fun!
I Absolutely loved this race! Hyped from EXPO to the finish line! Great volunteers! Great entertainment! Great snacks and fuel along the course! I did the 5k on Saturday and … MORE
I Absolutely loved this race! Hyped from EXPO to the finish line! Great volunteers! Great entertainment! Great snacks and fuel along the course! I did the 5k on Saturday and the Half on Sunday so I received 3 Great medals in all! Nice technical short sleeve shirts for each race! The weather, I’ve heard can be awful but Saturday ‘s weather for the 5k was great! It was supposed to be thunderstorms on Sunday during the half and the full, but we prayed the storms away. It was a bit humid on Sunday but no storms! I’ll take that! Just a great race! Some hills but they give my calfs a break from running a completely flat course. This is a great, exciting and fun race to do! I recommend it highly! 👌
Weather was a Shock in Little Rock
Unfortunately, the 20th anniversary Marathon brought along the warmest recorded race day temperatures in it's history. A muggy 72 to 78 degrees welcomed the Marathoners this year. Besides the weather … MORE
Unfortunately, the 20th anniversary Marathon brought along the warmest recorded race day temperatures in it’s history. A muggy 72 to 78 degrees welcomed the Marathoners this year. Besides the weather though, it is very obvious that this event is extremely important to Little Rock. There are a lot of talented people involved and the result is a very thoroughly well run event.
Pros: Event organization is top notch.
Warm Convention center available at start/finish.
Race Medal is unbelievably HUGE!
Cons: considerable hills on 2nd half of course. (May have seemed worse due to the temp being a muggy 75 in the beginning of March) Normal temps are 50s, so we had a bad luck weather year.
Rockin' in Little rock
This race has been praised by so many runners and for good reason. Amazing energy from start to finish, so engaging and inviting. On course entertainment from locals was amazing … MORE
This race has been praised by so many runners and for good reason. Amazing energy from start to finish, so engaging and inviting. On course entertainment from locals was amazing and fun.
Post race goodies was great: so much good food and beer.
Of course the medal was huge and amazing. since it was the 20th anniversary the medal was a huge ’20’ with tiny versions of all the past years medals
Big Medal for Little Rock
I chose this race for Little Rock because of good word of mouth and of course the medals. I would've loved to do the full marathon for the biggest medal … MORE
I chose this race for Little Rock because of good word of mouth and of course the medals. I would’ve loved to do the full marathon for the biggest medal ever but I had to leave Sunday afternoon and wasn’t sure I would be done on time to fit with my travel plans so I did the half marathon. For the race I stayed at the Marriot which is the host hotel. This is super convenient as the convention center, which is where the race expo is and where the race ends, is connected to the hotel. It was on the pricier side but not too bad for a race weekend host hotel. There are other cheaper hotels in walking distance as well. The expo was pretty good. It was much better than Atlanta though not as big as Miami. Packet pickup was easy. I did the 5K and half combo. Packet included a short sleeve tech shirt for both, the two bibs and a race poster. The bibs were a very sturdy material and had your name. The expo had a good number of booths and the best was a pet therapy booth with rotating dogs. I stopped by the expo a few extra times to pet the dogs. Little Rock isn’t the most exciting town but there are a few museums such as the Bill Clinton Presidential Library within walking distance of the hotel. This is another race you don’t need a rental car though we did have one. There is also the River Market nearby which has lots of food vendors including a vegan restaurant. I was nervous for race day since the forecast predicted thunderstorms and I would’ve hated to travel to Little Rock for the race to get canceled and even if there wasn’t thunder I was not looking forward to another rainy race. Luckily the weather held off and it was in the 60s. It was a bit humid but pretty nice running weather. There was just an occasional drizzle during the race which felt good. The start is right behind the hotel so I just rolled out of bed and left about 15 minutes before the race starts. You are assigned a corral and everyone seemed to be in the right corral from what I saw but there was a mass start and no stopping between corrals to let runners space out. This did cause the course to be more congested than Miami and Atlanta and one recommendation I would have is to wait 2 minutes or so between corrals to help space it better. I will admit I did not love the course scenery and I almost rated the race 4 sneakers because of this but the rest of the race was so well done I kept it at 5 sneakers. The start in downtown Little Rock is relatively interesting. I mean as interesting as Little Rock can be. Then you go across the big bridge that crosses the Arkansas River and the next section is really, unscenic and not very nice few miles. You then crossed back on the bridge back to downtown then there are a few more miles that go through a park and neighborhood and are just okay. Near the end is the best part going past the governor’s mansion. This part is very nice and the governor is even out waving to the runners. This was an interesting race to contrast to Atlanta. While this race did not have the best scenery, there was a ton of spectator support and on course entertainment so the miles flew by. Even with the threat of bad weather and occasional drizzle the whole town was out. There were also lots of “unofficial” aid stations with goodies and alcohol if you drink. One other minor complaint I have is I don’t think there was quite enough official aid stations. I think there were 5. The volunteers were great and very high energy but I needed a lot of water due to the humidity luckily I was carrying water. Also the gatorade was watermelon flavored and very watered down. The course was very well marked and easy to follow and had mile markers. I didn’t think the course was too difficult or too hilly. I’ve heard it’s a hilly course but it had about half the elevation gain of Atlanta. My Garmin had 350 ft elevation gain. The only hard part was most of the hills were at the end with the beginning and middle more flat. At the finish line there are a ton of spectators and a large finish arch. Due to the high energy, good weather and not too difficult course I was able to finish my goal of under 3 hours which I was very happy with. I’m getting faster each race since my injury so I am hoping to be back to my usual half marathon time of 2:30 to 2:45 by next month. After the finish line you go back to the convention center for the post race celebration. There you get your medal. The half medal is huge and the marathon medal is literally the size of your head. You also get a combo medal if you did a 5K or 10K on Saturday. The design this year was for the 20h anniversary and included images from all the past races. To be honest I thought the design was a little busy but loved the size and quality of the medal. There was a good post race food selection that all appeared to be vegetarian with pasta with marinara sauce, bananas, chips, trail mix, soda, beer, milk, and yogurt. There were tables set up in the convention center. I had to get the airport around 12:30 so I didn’t stay but it looked fun. Another perk of the hotel is there is noon check out so I was able to shower after the race before I left. Overall while this was not my favorite course I loved the energy of the race and the huge medals. I would definitely recommend this race for Arkansas. If I lived closer or if Little Rock was easier to fly to I would definitely do this again and even so am considering coming back someday for the marathon for the huge medal.