Heads up, Mesa residents and marathon enthusiasts: The annual Mesa Marathon is hitting the streets again on February 8. The event, which celebrates its 13th iteration this year, is bringing a change in scenery with a new route adjustment moving one mile west from Val Vista Drive to Lindsay Road, according to an article by the City of Mesa. Participants and onlookers should be ready for road closures starting bright and early at 4 a.m., all the way through to 2 p.m. on race day.
With a turnout of over 10,000 runners, the marathon stands as a staple in the Mesa event calendar and has garnered the top spot as the Best Marathon in Arizona, per a nationwide poll by RaceRaves. City Manager Chris Brady emphasized the city's commitment in an interview with the City of Mesa, stating, "The Mesa Marathon is a great event that continues to grow and attract runners and fans from not just the valley, but from throughout Arizona and the country." He also assured that measures have been taken to "minimize the inconveniences for our residents."
For Mesa inhabitants trying to go about their day during the marathon, the city has implemented an interactive detour map, available at gis.mesaaz.gov/mesamarathon, to assist in navigating the route closures. Plus, the city's Transportation Department will be offering personalized route planning over the phone and via email for the lead-up to and on the day of the race.
Public transit isn't getting left behind with the marathon shuffle either. Valley Metro bus services, including several routes and local buzz services, will experience detours. Runners and the public alike can stay informed on route changes and plan their trips using the Valley Metro app, and more detailed information is accessible via valleymetro.org/rider-alerts or by giving them a call, the city has announced.
The race, which is also a Boston Marathon Qualifier, boasts a gradual net elevation loss of 900+ feet and is expected to draw a diverse crowd looking to achieve personal milestones or simply enjoy the winter run. Phil Dumontet, CEO of the Mesa Marathon, told the City of Mesa, "We are thankful for our partnership with the City of Mesa, who have made every effort to bring the 2025 event to life and help make it a success." From runners aiming for the Boston finish line to kiddos partaking in the 1K, one can expect Mesa Riverview Park to be bustling with activity at the sunrise start near Usery Park mountains on race day.
