The Marathon Project is making a big comeback in 2025, and this time, it’s here to stay as an annual event. If you’re into fast races, elite competition, or just good vibes in the running community, mark your calendar for Dec. 20-21, because Chandler, Ariz. is the place to be.
what is the Marathon project?
Here’s the deal: The Marathon Project first made waves in 2020 when it created a much-needed opportunity for elite marathoners to compete during the pandemic. That race was a game-changer—Sara Hall crushed it with a blazing 2:20:32, making history as the second-fastest American woman ever at that time.
The flat, looped course at Wild Horse Pass was perfect for setting personal bests, and runners loved the fast and focused vibe.
Fast forward to 2025, and the same magic formula is back. The event will feature that same flat, 4.26-mile loop course in Chandler, designed for speed and good splits.
Ben Rosario, one of the original masterminds behind The Marathon Project, is back at the helm again, leading the charge. If his name sounds familiar, it’s because he’s the former NAZ Elite coach and a big advocate for American distance running. He’s calling this a new golden era for the sport and wants the Marathon Project to be a key part of that momentum. His right-hand man is Josh Cox, an agent for a number of top runners, many of which will be toeing the line at The Marathon Project in 2025.
“I think there is a need for this on the pro side, a time-trial race,” Cox said. “We’re not putting out the six-figure appearance fees, at least not to start anyhow. But there is a desire for the athlete to race really, really fast, whether that’s guys trying to run the Olympic standard, running 2:05 or 2:06, or women trying to do the same.”
Now Featuring an Open Race with Elite Perks
However, this new edition is not just for elites anymore.
The Marathon Project is introducing the Gold Wave Marathon, a race specifically for sub-elite runners. This means up to 1,000 serious amateur runners can toe the line and enjoy perks like pacers, fluid stations, and even an indoor warm-up area. (Let’s be real, those things make a difference when you’re gunning for a PR.)
Pace groups will start at 2:20 and go in 10-minute intervals, so whether you’re chasing a sub-3 marathon or something even faster, you’ll have a shot to run in prime conditions.
Katie Sutton, vice-president of athlete experience for The Marathon Project, said, “I was sub elite. Sometimes I would get some perks. Sometimes a free bib, or sometimes I could get into a [certain] corral, but so much of my brain energy on that race weekend was logistics. How early do I get to the start line? Am I going to have a bathroom? Where’s my bag? The Marathon Project aims to eliminate those concerns and give sub-elite marathoners an elite experience, so they can run as fast as possible. I think that that’s going to be something very cool for these amateur athletes who’ve never really gotten that,”
So, if you’re looking for a December marathon where fast times and good energy are the main goals, the Marathon Project 2025 should be on your radar. Grab your spot, lace up those shoes, and get ready to see what you’re made of.
