Philadelphia, PADate
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Event Details
Stocked with an interesting modern-and-historic mix of rock and roll bands alongside some of America’s most historically significant sights, the Philadelphia Distance Run brands itself as the country’s “premier half marathon” for the past quarter century.
The race, which welcomes both runners and walkers for the 13.1-mile course past landmarks such as Philly’s famed Independence Hall, City Hall and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, is an out-and-back course along paved city streets that starts and finishes at the city’s Eakins Oval, next to the museum.
The race is largely fast and flat with few hills to speak of – participants will experience very little changes in elevation, as the course starts at 35 feet above sea level and rises to its highest point at 55 feet. Throughout the course, runners and walkers are treated to numerous scenic city views, especially on the route alongside the Schuylkill River and serene Fairburn Park.
Fourteen local bands and musicians took turns playing on 11 stages scattered throughout the race course during the 2007 running of the race, as well as two bands – the Mark Stinger Band and the Kiwi Band – welcoming participants in at the finish line. The Distance Run also features a wheelchair competition and races for children, including 1-mile, ½-mile and ¼-mile fun runs for kids.
Race Weather & Climate
Early fall weather typically brings near-perfect weather conditions for a road race event to the Philadelphia metro area, with September temperatures that average between 61°F and 77°F. Rainfall averages about 3.88 inches for the month, so come prepared for wet weather.
Fees
$65 if registered by June 15, 2009
$75 between June 16 – Sept. 13
$85 at the race expo
