XENIA AVENUE MARATHON & HALF-MARATHON

Prepare for a rewarding race experience at the 7th Annual Xenia Avenue Marathon & Half-Marathon, set to take place on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in scenic Brooklyn Park, MN. This event is celebrated for its low-key atmosphere and offers USATF-certified courses that are notably flat and fast, making it an excellent opportunity for personal bests or for those looking to conquer the letter "X" in their marathon alphabet challenge. Both the full marathon (26.2M) and half-marathon (13.1M) kick off bright and early at 6:30 a.m. from Orchard Trail Park, providing an 8-hour time limit for all participants.

The course is a multiple-loop, out-and-back design that guides runners along the picturesque Rush Creek Corridor Trail before winding through a local neighborhood, including a roughly one-mile stretch along Xenia Avenue. Marathoners will complete five loops, while half-marathon participants will tackle two southbound loops, enjoying views through Oak Grove Park. Aid stations, providing water, Gatorade, and various fueling options, are strategically placed to offer support three times per loop, and previous runners have lauded the supportive volunteers. Typical race day conditions in late July can see highs around 83°F and lows around 64°F, with a 14% chance of precipitation, so runners should prepare accordingly for summer temperatures.

Beyond the personal challenge, participating in the Xenia Avenue Marathon & Half-Marathon supports a great cause, as all net proceeds benefit the Champlin Park High School Cross Country Running Booster Club, aiding local high school and middle school runners. Runners registering by June 30, 2026, will receive a soft cotton/polyester shirt and a finisher's medal, with top three overall male and female runners in each event earning awards. Packet pickup is conveniently available the Friday afternoon before the race or on race day morning at Orchard Trail Park. The race's reputation for being a Boston Qualifier, with a high percentage of finishers meeting the qualifying standard, further adds to its appeal for competitive athletes.