About the race
The Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon links Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota, and is often billed as the most beautiful urban marathon in America. It is among the ten largest marathons in the United States by finishers.
History
The race grew out of the Land of Lakes Marathon, started by the Minnesota Distance Running Association in 1963; only five men started the first one and three finished. After the two cities combined their separate marathons, the first Twin Cities Marathon took place on 3 October 1982, attracting 4,563 entrants and an estimated 100,000 spectators. Medtronic became the title sponsor in 2006. The 2020 edition was cancelled because of the pandemic and the 2023 edition was cancelled because of high heat and humidity.
The course
The route begins near U.S. Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis and winds past several of the city's lakes, among them Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet and Lake Nokomis. It then turns north along the Mississippi River and follows it for several miles before crossing into Saint Paul. The finish is at the Minnesota State Capitol, reached by heading east up Summit Avenue. The course climbs steadily between miles 21 and 23, which makes the end a challenge, though the last half mile runs downhill.
Distances
The weekend includes the 10 Mile alongside the marathon. Children aged 18 and under can enter organiser events at no cost through the TC Kids Run Free programme.
Date and entry
The marathon normally takes place on the first weekend in October through 2026. The organiser has announced that from 2027 the weekend moves to mid-October, between 10 and 17 October, to improve the chance of ideal race-day conditions. The organiser also runs a charity programme and a membership scheme with discounted registration.
Where to watch
The course passes lakes, parkways and the river corridor in both cities, with strong support along Summit Avenue and at the Capitol finish in Saint Paul.
Weather
October is autumn in Minnesota. Race mornings are normally cool, but conditions vary from year to year, and the 2023 cancellation is a reminder that warm, humid weather is possible. The organiser's decision to shift the date later is aimed at improving race-day conditions. Check the forecast close to the day.
SourcesTwin Cities In Motion home · Wikipedia: Twin Cities Marathon