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Top 10 Walking-Running Marathons for Walkers

By Wendy Bumgardner, About.com

Updated February 27, 2009

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These marathons are primarily designed for runners but also welcome walkers and have a cut-off time generous enough to accommodate walkers and run/walkers. Each includes timing, fluid support, and awards.

1. Portland Marathon

Wendy Bumgardner ©
Portland, Oregon welcomes 3000 walkers and 5000 runners every fall. The finish is kept open till the last person comes in, although those finishing in over 7 hours are sent on an alternate route the final 4 miles. Great for first-timers.

2. Walt Disney World® Marathon

January marathon through the Magic Kingdom welcomes walkers and runners from all of the charity marathon programs. Official time limit is 7 hours. Fills with over 13,000 walkers and runners months in advance - register early

3. Honolulu Marathon

Over 30,000 participate each December. Gorgeous the entire way. Generous 9 hour time limit, but it can get hot and humid.

4. Las Vegas Rock 'N' Roll Marathon

Running ElvisesWendy Bumgardner ©
December marathon and half marathon. The half marathon is more popular with walkers, as the course opens to traffic after the first 12 miles of the marathon unless you are on a running pace. As of 2009, the event is being hosted by Elite Racing as part of its Music Marathon series. I hope it keeps some of its spirit with hundreds running dressed as Elvis. Come for the party!

5. San Diego Rock and Roll Marathon

This May marathon features 26 bands in 26 miles. It has a seven hour time limit.

6. New York City Marathon

Walk the Big Apple in November with 30,000 walkers and runners. The time limit is 8.5 hours, but walkers must move to the sidewalk after they drop below an average 15 minute mile (6.5 hour pace).

7. Myrtle Beach Marathon

A friendly February marathon in South Carolina limited to 3500 runners and walkers with a time limit of 8 hours.

8. Dublin Marathon

October Irish marathon with an 8-hour time limit. It's a major destination marathon for the charity programs, but course changes in 2001 made it less friendly. The course opens to (heavy) traffic on an 18-minute mile pace, and water stops closed down for anybody going a walking pace.

9. Marine Corps Marathon

Scenic course around Washington DC in late October with 13,000 participants, but walkers must be on a 6.5 hour pace to beat the "struggler's bus" pick-up.

10. Mardi Gras Marathon

Walk the Big Easy - New Orleans on this flat, flat course in February. Let the good times roll!

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