Run for the Sun in January - The 2013 Arizona Marathon
Phoenix's Popular Annual Marathon is a Great Winter Escape
2013 Arizona Rock 'n' Roll Marathon
January 20, 2013
Phoenix, AZ
What better way is there to run a marathon for charity than to the beat of live bands all along the marathon course? Talk about motivation. The P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘N’ Roll Arizona Marathon has bands at every mile, so you can run, walk, take a break to watch a bit, or dance in the streets. With artists from a range of genres including alternative, jazz, classic rock, grunge and even blues, you may find yourself crossing the finish line in personal record time.
With a weekend full of activities for everyone, make a vacation out of your marathon participation. Book a Phoenix vacation rental for you and your running group or fan club, and spend a weekend or whole week in the Valley of the Sun. You’ll certainly look forward to that cozy bed after 26.2 miles and a day full of rocking fun.
Event Details
The Arizona Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon takes place every January in Phoenix. Marathon events include a full marathon, half marathon and a two person half marathon relay. All marathon races start at Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza and end on Packard Drive between the stadiums.
Register for the event online, by requesting a form through the mail or at the expo just before the event. Registration fees vary per event as follows and are based upon when you register:
- Full Marathon - $120 - $145
- Half Marathon - $105 - $145
- Relay Marathon - $195
Kick-off Expo
Two days before the main event, check out the Health and Fitness Expo, presented at the north building of the Phoenix Convention Center. From 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, peruse the booths for over 60 exhibitors. You’ll see some of the latest running gear to hit the retail market, as well as items not yet released to the public. All registered runners must visit the expo to pick up their running packet, and you’ll have an opportunity to pick up last minute essential items, as well as some freebies.
Spirit on the Course Competition
High school cheerleading squads bring additional encouragement and motivation to runners, and can win prizes for it. First, second and third place are awarded; previous winners donned Elmo, Grease and KISS themes for their costumes.
After Party
Following all the races, join all participants at the post race concert at the finish line, a free event open to everyone. Past bands included Vertical Horizon, Gin Blossoms, Kool & the Gang, Smash Mouth, and Everclear.
Additionally, on marathon day, be sure to check out the Finish Line Festival at Sun Angel Stadium. Festivities are from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is a great place to find your friends and family after the race and recover from your trek with live music, food and cold beer. As an added bonus, P.F. Chang’s offers $10 off your bill during the marathon weekend when you show off your race bib.