Marathon organizers adjust events for rising temperatures and participant safety

Yahoo Sports2 min read • Latest: Aug 13, 2026, 1:01 PM

Last updated Aug 13, 2026

Marathon organizers adjust events for rising temperatures and participant safety
Summary

As climate change affects weather patterns, marathon organizers are adapting their events to ensure runner safety. Starting in 2027, the Twin Cities Marathon will shift from its traditional October date to later in the month after experiencing record heat and humidity. Similarly, the Sioux Falls Marathon has moved from August to September. Races like the Air Force Marathon and Little Rock Marathon are now starting earlier in the day. Concerns about high temperatures led to new options for runners at some events, including a marathon in Los Angeles where participants could stop after 18 miles. A research study indicates that optimal running conditions will become increasingly unlikely in the coming years due to rising global temperatures.

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By the Numbers
  • Twin Cities Marathon adjusts date to later in October from 2027.
  • Sioux Falls Marathon moved from August to September under similar pressures.
  • Air Force Marathon and Little Rock Marathon adopting earlier start times.
  • Los Angeles Marathon offered shorter finish option amid warm conditions.
  • Climate research shows declining optimal conditions for marathons by 2045.
Latest Updates
  • 1:01 PMYahoo SportsThe warming climate is forcing marathons to consider changes to keep runners cool
What they're saying
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Paul Grinvalds has completed 114 marathons in all 50 states, but he still wilts when he races in temperatures beyond 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15.5 Celsius). “One thing about marathoners is typically we're kind of stubborn,” said Grinvalds, 68, from West Des Moines, Iowa, who finds even temperatures in the 50s F (10 C) a bit warm. Such an experience can also be dangerous, a reality that marathon organizers are having to confront as climate change, caused mostly by the burning of fuels like coal and gasoline, pushes temperatures up. To improve the chances of having the 26.2-mile (42-kilometer) race in cooler weather, organizers are shifting race dates, starting earlier and even giving options for participants to cut their runs short.

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