SUMMARY. The Full Marathon is the perfect Boston Marathon qualifying event because it's fast, flat, and notorious for being the backdrop for setting personal bests. The course starts in Wrightsville Beach and makes a straight shot to downtown Wilmington.  Runners will span 6 bridges (4 flat) and run the best Wilmington, NC has to offer. Come span the Cape Fear Coast and run from destination to destination.

The Novant Health Wilmington Marathon is an event that attracts runners from around the world with its scenic route and excellent organization. The race starts on the beach with stunning sunrise views, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Runners pass through picturesque areas, including beach and urban zones, as well as the UNC Wilmington campus.

The marathon is characterized by its long straight sections that allow for maintaining a steady pace, and several gentle hills that add variety and prevent monotony. The route also includes narrow paths and bridges, providing an extra challenge, especially at turns. Numerous aid stations along the course provide water, Gatorade, and gels, ensuring necessary support throughout the race.

Special attention is given to the organization, from packet pickup to the well-planned transportation logistics for participants. Volunteers at every stage offer crucial support and create a motivational atmosphere. The finish line is located downtown, where participants are greeted with applause and awarded medals. Post-race activities include food, drinks, and entertainment, allowing runners to relax and celebrate their achievements.

The advantages of this marathon include a scenic and fast route, excellent organization, and a warm supportive atmosphere. This marathon is ideal for achieving personal records and qualifying for the Boston Marathon, leaving unforgettable impressions on every participant.

Wrightsville Beach Marathon

Post-Race Review/ Results

The 2025 Wilmington Marathon on Saturday, February 23, had nearly 5,000 participants in all distances.

Thousands participate in Novant Health Wilmington Marathon

Pre-Race Review/ Lineup

The 2024 Wilmington Marathon will be held on Saturday, February 24.

Wilmington Marathon: Over 4,000 participants expected for 14th annual Novant Health marathon

Hugh Crews won the 2023 Wilmington Marathon in 2:36:15 while Ann Marie Pierce-Arseneau won the women's race in  2:36.17.

Pierce's Olympic qualifying time leads Wilmington Marathon results

The 2023 Wilmington Marathon will be held on Saturday, February 25, with record number of participants.

Wilmington marathon to shut down parts of Market Street, Eastwood Saturday

Well laid out course, well organized, and fast

Beautiful course, it's fast! Get your BQ!

Beautiful scenery but course could be improved

Fun, organized, fast course, professional

My first Marathon went GREAT, except my WALL! =)

Great location, fast course, earned my BQ!

By far the best organized races I have ran.

I keep coming back and will again in 2016!

Fun marathon with a flat and fast course.

Great race, great organization, great spectators.

Best race I have done - responding to previous

Nice try, but wouldn't run this one again

Good for first-timers or for chasing a PR or BQ.

Worth running but needs quirks worked out

Volunteers of this race were EXCELLENT!!!

Wilmington Marathon

Marathon Results