Clarence DeMar Marathon & Half Marathon

Clarence DeMar Marathon & Half Marathon

Home » Races » New Hampshire » Keene » Clarence DeMar Marathon & Half Marathon
Date

Sep 28, 2025

Starting Time

8:00 AM

Course

Road

Fees

$80+

Location

Keene

Participants

100-500

Terrain

Fast & Flat

Environment

Lakefront

Temperature
High: 65°
/ Low: 44°
Overview

Whether you’re new to running or a veteran of the sport, the Clarence DeMar Marathon & Half Marathon aims to spread the love of running. “Here, anyone who wants to run can run,” write organizers.

The race was established in 1978. It honors the legacy of Keene resident and seven-time Boston Marathon champion and Olympic medalist Clarence DeMar. Among current marathoners, the Clarence DeMar Marathon is a popular choice for those seeking a Boston qualifying time. (In 2022, 30% of finishers achieved their BQ, said organizers.)

When he wasn’t running or competing, DeMar taught engineering at Keene Normal School (now Keene State College), where he also coached cross-country. The team trained on a cinder track near the Appian Way finish line for the marathon and half marathon.

Course Description

The half marathon is run along a point-to-point course beginning at the Surry Mountain Lake in Surry and ending at Keene State College. Shuttles will be available from the college’s Spaulding parking lot from 6:30-7:00 am on race day to transport half marathoners to the start of the course.
From the starting line, the course winds south through Keene. While the race takes place predominantly on paved roads, several miles mid-race are run along a local bike path. Though the course is mostly flat, previous racers warn of the cemetery hill, which occurs around mile 5 of the half.
300+ volunteers provide ample course support and encouragement throughout the half marathon. Spectators gather at six cheering stations throughout the course to amp up runners. Water and Gatorade stops, helmed by volunteers, are available approximately every mile, and porta potties are stationed every 5 to 6 miles.

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