Phoenix will have its first full signature marathon on Dec. 13. On Wednesday, the City Council approved a one-year deal with Brooksee, a Utah-based company to produce the event.
In addition to the 26.2 mile marathon, there will be a half-marathon and 10K. Unlike other races, the Phoenix Marathon will take place completely within the city. The half and full marathon routes will include Camelback Road through the Biltmore area and all runners will finish near Papago Park.
In a statement, Phil Dumontet, CEO of Brooksee, said their goal is to establish a marquee race that draws local, national and international runners.
“We quickly recognized that Phoenix, as the largest U.S. city without a signature marathon, was the perfect location for our next world-class event,” he said.
The Phoenix Marathon will begin in Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien’s district at Deer Valley Towne Center near Interstate 17 and Loop 101.
“Phoenix continues to be the premier location to host top tier mega events like the Super Bowl, NCAA Championships and NBA/WNBA All Star Games in part because of our amazing climate, but also thanks to strategic investments we have made in public transit, public safety and economic development,” she said.
The Phoenix Marathon will have a USA Track & Field certified course for runners to qualify for the Boston and New York City marathons, along with the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.
According to a City Council report, the first year event is expected to attract more than 5,000 people, including 4,000 from out of town. Hotel stays, visitor spending and event operations are expected to generate an economic impact between $1.7 million and $2 million. The organizer will be responsible for the costs of barricades, police staffing and cleanup.
