Air Force Marathon 2025

• Historical course on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base with iconic landmarks.
• Patriotic atmosphere with aircraft displays and a dramatic finish under planes.
• Boston Marathon qualifying race.
• Multiple race distances: marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, and kids' run.
• Two-day Health & Fitness Expo, pasta dinner, and vibrant post-race festival.

The Air Force Marathon is an annual endurance event that offers a unique and exciting experience for runners. Starting at the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the marathon takes participants around the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The course is known for being relatively flat and fast, with a few hills, making it suitable for runners targeting personal bests. Historic areas such as Huffman Flying Field and the Fairborn Fly Zone provide a backdrop of aviation history and enthusiastic support. A lap around the flight line, where C-17 aircrafts are stationed, adds an exhilarating touch to the race. One unique feature of this marathon is the opportunity to run on an active airbase, complete with occasional flyovers that boost morale. The finish line, set on a runway lined with historic aircraft, culminates in a memorable race conclusion. Participants receive a race shirt, finisher medal, and access to various amenities. The event supports charities, offering a fulfilling experience that goes beyond the race itself. With multiple race weekend events, it provides runners ample opportunities to partake in the spirit of the Air Force Marathon.

Expect temperatures ranging from 60-81°F (16-27°C) with high humidity during the Air Force Marathon in mid-September in Dayton, Ohio. The weather is generally mostly cloudy with a moderate chance of light rain and a breezy feel. Runners should be prepared for warm, humid conditions at the start.

The Air Force Marathon presents a demanding yet exhilarating journey through diverse terrains and iconic landmarks. Starting and finishing at the National Museum of the United States Air Force, runners embark on an initial uphill climb before descending into the historic Huffman Flying Field by the third mile. The course then weaves through a flat loop on a golf course, transitions onto the 844 freeway, and swiftly exits into Wright State University.

Runners navigate through athletic facilities and onto Kauffman Avenue, a serene stretch with gentle rolling hills, before tackling the stout hill at mile 8 back into Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. A gradual descent follows, leading to the final challenges: a hill near the Air Force Research Labs and the Air Force Institute of Technology, before a rewarding downhill. The last mile is flat and fast, culminating in a memorable finish under the wingtips of historic aircraft at the museum’s Air Park.

With an elevation ranging from 785 to 930 feet, the course features a total elevation gain and loss of 450 feet, offering moderate challenges. The route's varied terrain, coupled with its passage through historic and military landmarks, provides a unique blend of physical and cultural enrichment, testing endurance while celebrating history.

Visiting Dayton for the Air Force Marathon offers more than just a race; it's an opportunity to dive into a city rich in aviation history and vibrant culture. Beyond the marathon, explore the National Museum of the United States Air Force, where historic aircraft and interactive exhibits await. For a touch of history, the Wright Brothers National Museum provides a fascinating look at the birthplace of aviation.

Dayton's cultural scene is equally compelling. The Dayton Art Institute houses an impressive collection spanning 5,000 years, from European masterpieces to contemporary art. For a more hands-on experience, head to the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, where science and nature come alive through interactive exhibits and planetarium shows.

Take time to wander through the Oregon District, a historic neighborhood brimming with eclectic shops, art galleries, and lively nightlife. If you crave the outdoors, Five Rivers MetroParks offers a vast expanse of trails and waterways perfect for hiking, biking, and kayaking. Just a short drive away, Yellow Springs provides a charming escape with its artsy vibe, local galleries, and unique shops. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, or outdoor enthusiast, Dayton promises a memorable visit.