Run the Classic City.
Crafted by runners.
Our inaugural 2024 Classic City Marathon weekend was a HUGE SUCCESS! We are really proud to share some of our favorite reviews:
“You have such a wonderful running community in Athens, and for the weekend I got to really feel like I was a part of it. I felt so connected and celebrated!”
“I could not believe this was the first year for this race. It was so well organized. Every detail had been considered. What a fantastic event!”
The Race Returns in 2025.
On January 25th, 2025, the Classic City Marathon returns to Athens, Georgia! The Classic City Marathon starts in historic downtown Athens and travels through all our beautiful city streets, vibrant communities, and stunning greenways! There are three ways to run the Classic City. Register for the full marathon, the Athena Half Marathon, or run the marathon in a relay-style with a team of four.
Three Ways to Run.
Classic City Marathon
April 24, 2024, 12:00am EDT –
July 31, 2024, 11:59pm EDT $110.00 August 1, 2024, 12:00am EDT –
October 31, 2024, 11:59pm EDT $125.00November 1, 2024, 12:00am EDT –
January 24, 2025, 11:59pm EST $140.00Athena Half Marathon
April 24, 2024, 12:00am EDT –
July 31, 2024, 11:59pm EDT $75.00 August 1, 2024, 12:00am EDT –
October 31, 2024, 11:59pm EDT $95.00November 1, 2024, 12:00am EDT –
January 24, 2025, 11:59pm EST $115.00Marathon Relay
April 24, 2024, 12:00am EDT –
July 31, 2024, 11:59pm EDT $220.00 August 1, 2024, 12:00am EDT –
October 31, 2024, 11:59pm EDT $240.00November 1, 2024, 12:00am EDT –
January 24, 2025, 11:59pm EST $260.00
Guided by History
According to legend, in ancient Greece a messenger, Pheidippides, was sent from Marathon to Athens to announce a victory in the battle of Marathon. For centuries runners have been testing themselves in the marathon and half marathon distances. In 2024, we’re bringing the marathon lore to Athens, Georgia. Our course, in keeping with the spirit of the marathon, our course is meant to be a challenge but also a place to create stories to bring back home! Athena, the patron goddess of wisdom, heroic endeavor, and the arts will be our guide. Athena is one of the iconic landmarks in the Classic City.
Our races are built drawing upon the knowledge of the Athens Road Runners community, a 400 member running club with extensive experience in road racing, both as participants, volunteers, race directors, course musicians, and cheerleaders. Some of our members have run over 120 marathons! Collectively we know what makes a great race experience, and we have your back!
Support
Nutrition
There will be water stops every 2-3 miles and nutrition will be provided on the course at miles 8 and 20 (~ 6 for the half marathoners). We will be providing GU energy gels on the course. Flavor options include strawberry-banana, tri-berry, and salted caramel (mmmmm).
Bike escorts will accompany you along the greenways. Medical assistance will be available along the course thanks to our sponsor, Piedmont Healthcare, and will be led by our medical director, Dr. Joe Colasurdo, DPM.
Course Aid
Volunteers
Lisa Patton is our excellent volunteer coordinator. Hundreds of volunteers will be along the course to guide you as you take on this legendary challenge. Interested in volunteering? Click here!
Athena’s Wisdom 🛡️
Look for the “🛡️” icon throughout the site and on official Classic City Marathon updates for tips and advice from Athens runners. These sections will provide you with Athens-specific hints, as well as lessons learned from other marathons.
An instant Classic.
A Big Dream supported by a Big Name.
Lululemon is our 2025 Title Sponsor.
Friends of Pheidippides
These individuals were supporters of the Classic City Marathon before the starting line was even set. When you see them on race day, be sure to give them a cheer!
Jeremy Anthony
Virginia Ball
Harley Campbell
Jessica Glisson
Margaret Mosher
Kenny Serrano
Kate Wicker