Detroit Free Press Marathon
Race Day Weather
Cool morning, strategic wind shifts
Runners will face a cool start at 47°F, rising to 59°F by the end. Winds will be predominantly headwind during the early and late miles, particularly tough from Miles 1-2 and 9-21, necessitating pacing adjustments. With humidity at 67%, hydration should be prioritized, especially during exposed stretches. Tailwinds from Miles 6-7 and 12-16 offer opportunities for faster splits.
Pace Calculator
The Detroit Free Press Marathon is a 42.195-kilometre (26.219 mi) race run every third Sunday in October in Detroit, Michigan, United States and Windsor, Ontario, Canada since 1978. Major General Stan Connelly and Jerry Coyle organized the first international marathon. MaryJane Hatton, recorded the times as the runners crossed the finish line. After each marathon Stan Connelly and his daughter MaryJane Hatton would compile a booklet entitled, “We’re All Winners” of every runner and their times. The marathon course is international and has featured the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel for all but two years of its existence. The current course crosses the Ambassador Bridge and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel between Detroit and Windsor. Due to its use of the tunnel, the race is able to boast that it has the only official underwater international mile in the world, as the tunnel runs underneath the Detroit River. The race is a USATF-certified, Boston-qualifier course. Wikipedia
Course Map
FAQ
When is the 2026 Detroit Free Press Marathon?
Is the Detroit Free Press Marathon a Boston Marathon Qualifier?
What is the time limit for the Detroit Free Press Marathon?
Historical Weather
Temperature History
Range of temperatures during race hours for each year.
