Garmin selects Durham, North Carolina as newest Garmin Marathon Series location

OLATHE, Kan./October 2, 2025 – Garmin (NYSE: GRMN) today announced the Garmin Marathon Series would add a third location – Durham, N.C. in the nation’s Research Triangle – and host a Boston Marathon qualifier marathon, USATF-certified half marathon, 10K and 5K on Saturday, May 2, 2026, with participants finishing on the Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium on the Duke University campus¹.

“Each Garmin Marathon Series location offers a special way to celebrate runners from across the country and around the world. In Durham, we look forward to working with community stakeholders – including the Durham Sports Commission, Duke University and the Durham Bulls – to create a signature experience that will tell the Garmin story like never before. After seeing the success of our inaugural event in Toledo last month, we are so excited to bring this road running race to the East Coast.”
—Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing

Runners begin on the historic American Tobacco Campus in downtown Durham before enjoying the landmark buildings and homes of scenic Watts Street. They will also go past the wall of Duke University East Campus, pass through Durham Bulls Athletic Park and run on sections of the American Tobacco Trail before ending at Duke University. The routes provide a compelling mix of urban heritage, rolling hills and trails, highlighting Durham’s unique culture and history. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Garmin and their race series to Durham Bulls Athletic Park. This collaboration brings together iconic brands that value performance, community, and an active lifestyle. We’re proud to host an event that inspires runners from across the country, right here in the heart of Durham.” 
—Chrystal Rowe, Durham Bulls General Manager 

A two-day expo will feature Garmin products, as well as activations from national brand partners and local vendors. Attendees can expect limited edition race gear from Garmin, meet and greets with Garmin-sponsored professional athletes and family-friendly activities like a selfie station and sign-making area. After the race, a finish line festival in Wallace Wade Stadium at Duke University will give runners and spectators a chance to celebrate with local food and entertainment. Both the expo and finish line festival are open to the public.

“We’re incredibly proud to bring the nationally recognized Garmin Marathon Series to Durham. This is a major win for the Bull City and marks a milestone in our ongoing efforts to showcase Durham as a premier sporting destination. We’re excited to spotlight our vibrant city and its energetic race routes to both participants and spectators alike.” —Angelique Stallings, Durham Sports Commission Board Chair

The Garmin Marathon Series is a bold new chapter in road running events, wholly owned and produced by Garmin, a global leader in fitness technology and pioneer of the first running smartwatch. Registration for the Garmin Marathon Series is currently open for all race distances in Tucson (November 2025), Durham (May 2026) and Toledo (September 2026). For additional information about the cities, races, community engagement opportunities and future locations, please visit garmin.com/marathons.

Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized the aviation, automotive, fitness, marine and outdoor markets. Dedicated to helping people make the most of the time they spend pursuing their passions, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday. Visit the Garmin Newsroom, email our media team, connect with @garmin on social, or follow our blog.

¹Durham courses are pending and subject to change.

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