Saturday, May 20, 2023 • Oak Bluffs, MA • Course Map
Each spring, Oak Bluffs plays host to a not-to-be missed “runcation” event: the Martha’s Vineyard Marathon & Half Marathon.
Located just south of Cape Cod, the island of Martha’s Vineyard has historically been known as an affluent summer colony. As you plan your transportation, take note that the island is only accessible by ferry or plane.
Featuring a mostly flat course and a generous 6-hour time limit for both the marathon and half marathon, these races offer something for all levels. Take your best shot at qualifying for Boston on the marathon course, or walk your first half marathon. Either way, you’ll be treated to miles of sandy beaches and peaceful forests alongside this unforgettably beautiful course.
For movie buffs, there’s an added bonus: Jaws was filmed on Martha’s Vineyard. Both the marathon and half marathon courses take runners over the American Legion Memorial Bridge, affectionately known as the “Jaws Bridge,” which is famously hurdled by Roy Scheider in one of the film’s scariest shark attacks.
The race is a point-to-point course, beginning at Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School and ending at Waban Park in Oak Bluffs.
Runners depart from the starting line in waves. After the first two miles, marathoners split off to run their first 13 miles through DCR Manuel Correllus State Forest. At that point, half marathoners continue south toward Edgartown, running along the paved bike path for 5 miles.
Turning north onto Beach Road, half marathoners will trace the coast for their final 5 miles as they pass over the Jaws Bridge and toward the finish line in Oak Bluffs.
If you’re not ready to tackle a half marathon but are still looking for a challenge, a 2-person half marathon relay option is available, with the first runner covering 5.3 miles of the course and the second completing the last 7.8.
Race Weather & Climate
There’s a reason Martha’s Vineyard is a popular summertime destination! As the weather warms up in May, expect pleasant running conditions, with plenty of coastal breezes and average temperatures ranging from 53°F to 68°F.
Past Results
Course Map
See the race course map for the Martha’s Vineyard Marathon & Half Marathon here.
Starting Time
- 8:30 AM for Wave 1 (full, half & relay)
- 8:33 AM for Wave 2 (full, half & relay)
- 8:35 AM for Wave 3 (full, half & relay)
- 8:38 AM for Wave 4 (full, half & relay)
Fees
- $109-$129 for the Marathon
- $89-$109 for the Half Marathon
- $139-169 for the Half Marathon 2-Person Relay
Registration
To secure your spot in the 2023 running of the Martha’s Vineyard Marathon, Half Marathon & Relay, register here at RunSignUp.com beginning in October 2022.
Official Race Website
Facebook Conversations
Ever run in the Martha’s Vineyard Marathon, Half Marathon & Relay? Share your impressions here, or post your review in the Comments below.
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