Race Preview: 2015 Portland Marathon
Official course maps and spectators guide can be found here: Course maps & Spectators maps/guide
There will be approximately 19 aid stations spread throughout the race and located less than 2 miles from each other, providing water and the mineral replacement, Ultima Replenisher. In addition to that, there will be 5 to 6 aid stations offering carbo replacements such as gummy bears and pretzels. Also, just as importantly, portable toilets will be available at the start, finish, at aid stations and along the course at different points. Phew!
- For those curious about the course elevation.
All finishers will cross the finish line at SW 3rd Avenue where they will be greeted with friendly volunteers who show you the way to nearby tables covered with mountains of post-race grub. When I first ran the Portland Marathon a few years back and (eventually) crossed the finish line, I victoriously downed 3 chocolate milk cartons within 5 minutes (I wish I was kidding). This was obviously the worst idea ever, but at the time, tasted awesome! In addition to all the high quality grub, finishers will also receive a finishers medal and long sleeve finishers shirt, a disposable cover up jacket, a Portland rose, a tree seedling to plant, and more.
For those looking to qualify for the Boston Marathon, the Portland Marathon is indeed a qualifier for the 2017 Boston Marathon as well as the 2016 Boston Marathon if registration is still open. Chrono Track chip timing system will be used for the Portland Marathon, with timed splits occurring at the start, 10k, 10 mile, half, 20 mile, 35km, and finish. If your friends or loved one’s want to track where you are during the race, there will be runner/walker tracking available the day of the race on the Portland Marathon website.

October 4, 2015
Some important info to note, there will not be a baggage check on event day. Foot Traffic downtown, however, will offer a bag check Friday and Saturday before the race and starting at 5:30a.m. race day. The service is free to race participants who show a receipt of purchase from Foot Traffic within the previous 3 months or if a participant is a Foot Traffic member. For all others, there is an $8 fee.
Packet pick up will take place at the Portland Marathon Sports and Fitness Expo held at the Portland Hilton downtown. The Expo is Friday, October 2, 2015 from 11a.m. to 8p.m. as well as Saturday, October 3, 2015 from 9a.m. to 7p.m. There will be no packet pick up Sunday (day of race).
Best wishes and happy training, everyone!
Portland Marathon full and half
Date: Sunday, October 4, 2015
Start time: 7a.m.
Start location: SW 4th & Taylor
Register: Portland Marathon Registration
Cost: Full marathon $140; Half marathon charity entry $250