SUMMARY: The marathon, half-marathon and the 8k run along the beautiful Virginia Beach resort area (on flat paved roads) and some of the city's nicest beachfront neighborhoods.  The marathon and half-marathon passes by the World Famous Cape Henry Lighthouse.

The Shamrock Sportsfest Marathon stands out as an exceptional running event, combining excellent organization with a scenic course and a festive atmosphere. This marathon, set against the backdrop of Virginia Beach, offers participants a flat and fast route, perfect for those looking to set personal records or simply enjoy a pleasant run.

Runners start in the heart of Virginia Beach and quickly head south, experiencing the unique thrill of running through military bases where enthusiastic soldiers offer high-fives and encouragement. The course then loops back to the famous boardwalk, providing breathtaking ocean views before heading north through tree-lined roads and serene stretches of the Fort Story military base. The final miles along the boardwalk, with the finish line in sight, are particularly motivating as spectators line the route, cheering on the runners.

The organization of the Shamrock Sportsfest Marathon is top-notch, with well-stocked aid stations, clear course markings, and enthusiastic volunteers ensuring a smooth and enjoyable race day experience. The pre-race expo is well-organized and offers a variety of vendors, making packet pickup a breeze.

One of the highlights of the marathon is the finish line celebration. After crossing the finish line, runners are greeted with cheers, medals, and a generous assortment of post-race refreshments, including the much-loved Irish stew and four complimentary beers. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by live music, creating a vibrant and celebratory environment on the beach.

Shamrock Sportsfest Marathon

Human Interest Story

The thirty-eight Shamrock Marathon was held in Virginia Beach and nearly twenty-three thousand runners participated in the running events. The first race in 1973 had only 59 participants.

Shamrock Marathon Rocks On

Post-Race Review/ Results

John Piggott finished the Shamrock Sportsfest Marathon in eighth and second among masters runners. The real story is that he started last in a field of three-thousand runners in an effort to raise money for Haiti by passing fellow competitors.

Piggott Raises Money For Haiti With Strong Shamrock Marathon Finish

Hillary Dietz crossed the finish line of the thirty-eighth Shamrock Marathon. Surprising to say the least when you learn that she suffered a stroke just prior to the Chicago Marathon last year.

Stroke Victim Caps Recovery With Strong Shamrock Run

The 38th annual Shamrock Marathon produced an overall winning time of 2 hours 27 minutes and 49 seconds for Sergey Kaledin of Russia while Meghan Ridgley won her first marathon with a time of 2 hours 52 minutes and 1 second.

38th Shamrock Marathon Has Winners

Excellent flat race with great afterparty!

Marathon Summary

Marathon Results