BURLINGTON, VERMONT – The Green Mountain State's premier sporting event, the 35th M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay, is gearing up for a grand start on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at 7:00 AM, from Burlington's iconic Waterfront Park. This milestone 35th edition of the race is expected to draw over 4,600 participants, including marathoners, relay teams, and handcycle athletes, who will pound the pavement through the Queen City's vibrant streets.
Designed by RunVermont, the challenging yet scenic marathon course features two 13.1-mile loops, completing the full 26.2-mile distance. The route, which connects Burlington's south and north ends, promises participants breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding landscape.
Event Overview & Key Information
Event Name: 35th M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay
Date & Time: Sunday, May 25, 2025, 7:00 AM
Start & Finish: Waterfront Park, Burlington
Organizer: RunVermont Inc.
Sponsor: M&T Bank
Past Results: Available on BurlingtonFreePress.com
Memorial Day Weekend Event Schedule
The marathon weekend is packed with a variety of complementary events leading up to the main race:
Friday, May 23 (1:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Sports & Fitness Expo at DoubleTree by Hilton (870 Williston Road, South Burlington). This is your go-to for packet pickup, race merchandise, and valuable race information.
Friday, May 23 (6:00 PM - 7:30 PM): RunVermont Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at DoubleTree by Hilton. A special evening honoring individuals who have significantly contributed to Vermont's running culture.
Saturday, May 24 (8:30 AM): RunVermont Vermont City Two Mile & Mini Marathon at Waterfront Park. A fun, shorter distance run perfect for children and families.
Saturday, May 24 (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM): Sports & Fitness Expo continues at DoubleTree by Hilton.
The Marathon Course: A Scenic Challenge
The RunVermont-designed course is renowned for its picturesque beauty and gentle undulations, making it appealing to both novice and experienced marathoners. Starting and finishing at Waterfront Park, the route winds through downtown Burlington, offering diverse views of the city's south and north. Participants can expect cool lake breezes and well-supported sections with aid stations and cheering zones throughout, ensuring a positive race experience.
2025 Vermont City Marathon Participant Snapshot
As of May 13, registrations for this year's event show a strong turnout. A total of 1,881 marathoners, 6 handcyclists, and 1 push-rim athlete have registered. Additionally, 478 two-person relay teams and 431 three-to-five-person relay teams are signed up, bringing the total projected participation to over 4,600 individuals.
Geographically, Vermont residents account for the largest share of participants at 28%, followed by Massachusetts (21%) and New York (13%), highlighting the marathon's popularity within the Northeast. Its proximity to Quebec, Canada, also ensures a consistent international presence, solidifying its status as a diverse and inclusive event.
Prize Money: Fueling the Competition
The Vermont City Marathon offers a substantial $11,200 in total prize money across various categories, igniting a competitive spirit among elite athletes:
Open Female & Male Divisions: 1st Place ($2,400), 2nd Place ($1,300), 3rd Place ($800)
Non-binary Division: 1st Place ($2,400) – a significant inclusion promoting inclusivity for all participants.
Handcycle Female & Male Divisions: 1st Place ($700)
Push Rim Wheelchair Female & Male Divisions: 1st Place ($700)
Masters (40+) Female & Male Divisions: 1st Place ($700)
Top Vermont Resident Female & Male: 1st Place ($700) – requires legal residency in Vermont since prior to May 27, 2024.
Course Records: A Legacy of Speed
The Vermont City Marathon boasts an impressive history of record-breaking performances:
Men's Course Record: 2 hours, 17 minutes, 03 seconds by Michael Kobotov (2001). Kobotov's powerful finish in 2001 set a new benchmark that has remained unbroken for over two decades.
Women's Course Record: 2 hours, 33 minutes, 40 seconds by Maegan Krifchin (2023). Krifchin, leveraging favorable weather and a well-maintained course in 2023, delivered an dominant performance, rewriting the women's course record and leaving her mark on the event's history.
The Enduring Legacy of the Vermont City Marathon
Since its inception in 1989, the Vermont City Marathon has become a cornerstone sporting event in Vermont. Each year, thousands of participants and tens of thousands of spectators converge on Burlington, creating a festive atmosphere. Beyond the race itself, participants enjoy the scenic beauty along Lake Champlain. The event significantly boosts the local economy and thrives on the dedication of volunteers and active community involvement.
Held over Memorial Day weekend, the marathon also serves as a poignant tribute to military veterans. Many participants run to achieve personal goals while honoring the holiday's true meaning. The relay division, in particular, fosters camaraderie as friends, families, and colleagues team up to complete the course, highlighting that the marathon is not just an individual challenge but a collective endeavor.
RunVermont, M&T Bank, and the City of Burlington are collaborating closely to ensure the 35th edition is both safe and successful. Participants can look forward to an unforgettable race experience amidst Burlington's welcoming hospitality.
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