RUNdetroit's 18 Mile Course Preview Run

RUNdetroit's Flight Club is hosting a non-competitive 18 mile group run along the Detroit Free Press Marathon Course.  The route will feature miles 17.5-26 followed by 9-17 of the marathon course.

The run will leave from the RUNdetroit store promptly at 8:10am on Sunday, September 8th.  The roads we are running on WILL be open to regular auto traffic so we will be running on side walks/pedestrian paths.  Use caution when crossing the road.

Staffed water stations will be provided approximately every 4 miles with energy gels & hydration drink around the halfway mark.  Restrooms are available at the Start/Finish.  Restrooms along the course are limited but will be marked on the course map. Route map available HERE.  We will provide Pace Leaders at these pace per mile intervals 9:00, 9:30, 10:00, 11:00 and may add more depending on RSVPs. For heat safety reasons all participants must be able to complete this run in 3 hours 40 minutes or less (a 12:15 pace).

There is a $10 registration cost for this event.  The entry fee goes towards the the aid stations on the course. Event capacity is limited so register before it sells out.  

There is no day-of registration.  Online registration closes at 12pm on Friday 9/6 unless the event sells out beforehand.

All attendees will be entered to win a pass to our FREEP VIP Area. The VIP Area includes private bathrooms, private gear check, warming area, massage, and more all within a few blocks of the International Half/Full starting line! If you don't win you can buy your way in by spending $180 on in-stock merchandise at RUNdetroit between August 19-October 17. More info HERE. Winner will be randomly selected at the 18 Miler and announced before the start of the event.

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FAQs

I'd like to volunteer to lead one of your pace groups.  What's involved? This event is not a race so your job will be more casual than that of the race day pacers -- we won't even make you carry a big sign.  All we ask is that you run your pace consistently for 18 miles and keep your group on the course (so its important that you memorize the route map Here!).  Volunteers will get free entry to this training run, tons of thank yous and possibly some sweaty hugs. Email [email protected] to sign up.

What if I'm running the Half Marathon and don't want to do the full 18 miles? What if I want to run more than 18 miles? You're more than welcome to run shorter or longer than the planned route; however, its your responsibility to review the map and know where to add or subtract from the 18-mile course.

Is there a time cut off? Yes, due to the temperatures in early September and limited shade on the course all participants must be able to complete this 18 mile run in 3 hours 40 minutes or less. This works out to a 12:15 pace per mile.

What are my parking options? There are about lots of spaces near RUNdetroit. The two gravel lots across the street, and street parking are all options. Do not park on the Division St. Bridge, you will get a ticket. We encourage you to carpool to the event.  While this area is generally very quiet on a Sunday morning, like anywhere else, we recommend that you do not leave any valuables in your car. 

Are we running into Canada? No.  This is a preview of the US portion of the course.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? No, save a tree. 

Can I register the day of the event? No. There is no day of registration. If you want to participate you must register prior to 12pm on Friday 9/6.

What is the refund policy? This event is non-refundable.

Where can I contact the organizer with any other questions? Please contact [email protected] with any questions.