The 2025 Detroit Marathon has commenced, showcasing the city’s vibrant running community. The event kicked off with the 1-Mile run near the picturesque Detroit Riverfront Conservancy. This annual marathon weekend brings excitement and competition, attracting runners from all walks of life.
Event Details
The 48th edition of the Detroit Free Press Marathon took place on Sunday, October 19, 2025. Events began early with the Adaptive Athlete Division starting at 6:58 a.m., followed by the first wave of runners for the marathon, international half-marathon, and marathon relay at 7 a.m.
Race Categories and Start Times
- Adaptive Athlete Division: 6:58 a.m.
- Marathon, International Half-Marathon, Marathon Relay: 7:00 a.m.
- Motor City Half-Marathon: 10:30 a.m.
The marathon route has undergone slight changes this year. Participants will cross into Windsor via the Ambassador Bridge and return to Detroit through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. The course winds through various neighborhoods, including Woodbridge and Indian Village, and runs alongside the Dequindre Cut before concluding at Woodward and Congress, near Campus Martius.
Past Highlights and Tragedy
Last year’s event was remarkable for both joy and heartache. A memorable moment was when Ferndale residents Sydney Devore-Bowman and Andy Bowman both claimed victory in their respective races. Unfortunately, the day was also marked by tragedy, as a 57-year-old runner collapsed near the fifth mile in the Canadian segment of the race course.
Weather and Tracking Runners
The weather forecast for the marathon day suggests possible rain. Anticipated highs are around 63 degrees, with breezy mornings accompanied by rain showers.
Tracking Your Favorite Runners
To follow runners during the Detroit Marathon, participants can download the Detroit Free Press Marathon app available on iOS and Android. After launching the app, users can select “Start Tracking” from the main menu. This allows tracking of runners by name or bib number.
Stay Connected
For real-time updates throughout the marathon, stay connected with El-Balad and follow along on social media using the hashtag #freepmarathon. Join us in celebrating the spirit of the marathon as thousands of dedicated runners cross the finish line.
