Napa Valley Marathon: A Scenic Race Through California's Wine Country

The Napa Valley Marathon is an annual race that takes place in Napa Valley, California. This marathon has been a popular event for runners from around the world since its inception in 1979. The marathon is known for its beautiful scenery, including vineyards, rolling hills, and the Silverado Trail.

The Napa Valley Marathon is a point-to-point race that begins in Calistoga and ends in Napa. The course is USATF certified and is known for being a fast and flat course, making it a popular choice for runners looking to set personal records. In addition to the full marathon, there is also a half marathon and a 5K race that take place on the same day.

The Napa Valley Marathon is not just a race, but a celebration of running, health, and wellness. The event draws runners of all ages and abilities, from elite athletes to first-time marathoners. The marathon is also a charitable event, with proceeds benefiting local non-profit organizations. Overall, the Napa Valley Marathon is a must-attend event for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Napa Valley while pushing their limits as a runner.

Event Overview

Date and Location

The Napa Valley Marathon is an annual marathon held in March in Calistoga, California. The next marathon is scheduled for March 5, 2023, and the half marathon will be held on the same day. The race starts at 7:00 am at the Calistoga Junior/Senior High School and finishes at Vintage High School in Napa.

Race Categories

The Napa Valley Marathon offers a full marathon, half marathon, and a 5K race. The full marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier, and the half marathon is a fast, net downhill course, making it an excellent race for first-timers. Participants must be at least 16 years old to run the full marathon and at least 14 years old to run the half marathon.

Registration Details

Registration for the Napa Valley Marathon usually opens in the fall before the race. The 2023 Kaiser Permanente Napa Valley Marathon & Half Marathon has officially sold out, with runners from around the world gearing up for the highly anticipated race. Participants can register for the 5K race on the day of the event.

The registration fee includes a t-shirt, finisher's medal, and access to the post-race festival. Participants can also purchase additional merchandise, such as hats and jackets, during registration.

Overall, the Napa Valley Marathon is a highly anticipated event that attracts runners from around the world. With a variety of race categories and a beautiful course, it's no wonder that the event sells out quickly every year.

Race Information

The Napa Valley Marathon is a point-to-point race along the scenic Silverado Trail. The course is renowned for its beauty, featuring stunning vineyards and world-renowned wineries along the way. The marathon is a Boston Qualifier, meaning that runners who complete the race in a certain time will have the opportunity to qualify for the Boston Marathon.

Course Description

The course starts in Calistoga and finishes in Napa. The first half of the course features a gradual descent, while the second half is relatively flat. The total elevation change throughout the course is approximately 300 feet. The course is entirely on pavement and is well-marked with aid stations every few miles.

Start and Finish

The full marathon starts at 7:30 am in Calistoga. Buses are provided to transport runners from the finish line in Napa to the start line. The finish line is located at Vintage High School in Napa. Spectators are welcome to attend the finish line festivities and cheer on the runners.

Timing and Pace

The Napa Valley Marathon uses chip timing to accurately record each runner's time. The course is open for 6 hours, giving runners plenty of time to complete the race at a comfortable pace. The average pace for the race is approximately 9 minutes and 30 seconds per mile, although individual paces will vary depending on the runner's ability and training.

Overall, the Napa Valley Marathon is a challenging and rewarding race for runners of all abilities. With its stunning scenery and well-marked course, it is a must-do race for any runner looking to take on a challenging marathon.

Participant Guide

Age Requirements

Participants in the Napa Valley Marathon must be at least 16 years old on the day of the race. For those under 18 years old, a parent or guardian must sign a waiver for them to participate. The race organizers reserve the right to ask for proof of age.

Health and Safety

The Napa Valley Marathon takes the health and safety of its participants very seriously. Kaiser Permanente, a leading healthcare provider, is the official medical sponsor of the race. There will be medical personnel stationed at various points along the course and at the finish line to provide assistance if needed.

Participants are encouraged to consult with their healthcare provider before undertaking any training program or participating in the race. It is also important to listen to your body during the race and stop immediately if you experience any pain or discomfort.

Nutrition and Hydration

Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for a successful marathon experience. Participants are advised to eat a balanced diet in the days leading up to the race and to avoid trying any new foods on race day. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for runners and should be included in pre-race meals.

During the race, there will be aid stations every 2-3 miles that will offer water, Gatorade, and energy gels. It is recommended that participants drink water or sports drink at each aid station to stay hydrated. It is also important to listen to your body and drink when you feel thirsty.

In conclusion, the Napa Valley Marathon is a challenging but rewarding experience for participants. By following the age requirements, taking care of their health, and fueling their bodies with proper nutrition and hydration, participants can enjoy a safe and successful race.

Community Impact

The Napa Valley Marathon is more than just a race; it has a significant impact on the local community. The event brings together runners, volunteers, and spectators from all over the world, creating a sense of community and camaraderie. The following subsections highlight the ways in which the Napa Valley Marathon positively impacts the community.

Local Involvement

The Napa Valley Marathon has a significant impact on the city and greater Napa community. The event attracts thousands of visitors, which provides a boost to the local economy. Many local businesses benefit from the influx of visitors, including hotels, restaurants, and shops.

The marathon also relies heavily on local volunteers. The Kiwanis Club of Napa has been a partner of the Napa Valley Marathon for many years, providing volunteers to help with registration, water stations, and course marshaling. The involvement of local volunteers is crucial to the success of the event and demonstrates the community's commitment to supporting the marathon.

Charity and Scholarships

The Napa Valley Marathon is a non-profit organization that gives back to the community in a variety of ways, including through a yearly scholarship program. The scholarship program provides financial assistance to graduating high school seniors in Napa County who plan to pursue higher education. The marathon also supports several local charities, including the Napa Valley Vine Trail Coalition and the Napa Valley Food Bank.

In conclusion, the Napa Valley Marathon has a significant impact on the local community. The event brings together runners, volunteers, and spectators from all over the world, creating a sense of community and camaraderie. The involvement of local volunteers and the support of local businesses demonstrates the community's commitment to supporting the marathon. Additionally, the marathon's charitable contributions through its scholarship program and support of local charities further highlight its positive impact on the community.

Spectator Information

If you're planning to watch the Napa Valley Marathon, you'll want to know the best viewing spots and the event weekends. Here's a guide to help you plan your day.

Viewing Spots

The Napa Valley Marathon course is known for its scenic beauty that passes through vineyards and mountains. Spectators can watch the runners at various points along the course. The best viewing spots include:

  • Silverado Trail at Brennan Street: This is the starting point for the marathon. Spectators can cheer the runners as they start their 26.2-mile journey.
  • Silverado Trail at Conn Creek: This is the starting point for the half marathon. Spectators can watch the runners as they begin their 13.1-mile run.
  • Vintage High School: This is the finishing point for all the races. Spectators can watch the runners cross the finish line and celebrate their achievement.

Event Weekends

The Napa Valley Marathon is not just a race, it is an event. There are several activities that take place during the marathon weekend that spectators can enjoy. These include:

  • Downtown Napa: The marathon weekend starts with a Health and Fitness Expo in downtown Napa. This is a great opportunity to meet the runners and learn more about the race.
  • Wine Tasting: The Napa Valley is known for its world-renowned wineries. Spectators can enjoy wine tasting at various wineries along the course.
  • Kiwanis Club of the Greater Napa Valley 5K: This is a quick out-and-back race from the main finish line. Spectators can watch the runners as they complete the 5K.

Overall, the Napa Valley Marathon is a great event for runners and spectators alike. With beautiful scenery and plenty of activities, it's a weekend that shouldn't be missed.

Runner Resources

Training Tips

Preparing for a marathon requires dedication, discipline, and a well-structured training plan. Runners should start their training at least 16 weeks before the race day. It is recommended to start with a base mileage of 20-25 miles per week and gradually increase it by 10% each week. Incorporating speed work, hill training, and long runs into the training plan can help improve running performance and reduce the risk of injury.

Runners can also benefit from cross-training activities such as cycling, swimming, and strength training to improve overall fitness and prevent muscle imbalances. It is important to listen to the body and adjust the training plan accordingly to avoid overtraining and burnout.

Race Day Preparation

On race day, runners should arrive at the starting line at least an hour before the race start time to allow time for parking, bag check, and warm-up. It is important to wear comfortable running shoes and clothing, and to bring a water bottle and energy gels if needed.

The Napa Valley Marathon offers a scenic course that passes through vineyards and wineries, providing runners with a unique and enjoyable experience. Runners should pace themselves accordingly and take in the beautiful scenery along the way.

In addition, runners should be aware of the aid stations along the course and plan their fueling strategy accordingly. The Napa Valley Marathon provides water and sports drinks at every aid station, as well as energy gels at select aid stations.

By following these training tips and race day preparation guidelines, runners can achieve their personal best and enjoy the beautiful scenery and wineries of the Napa Valley Marathon.

Awards and Recognition

Race Winners

The Napa Valley Marathon has a long history of attracting top runners from around the world. The men's and women's winners of the marathon receive a cash prize, as well as a trophy and a bottle of wine from a local vineyard. In addition, the top three finishers in each age group receive medals.

Recent female champions include Sarah Crouch who won the 2019 Napa Valley Marathon with a time of 2:44:27, and Jenny Kadavy who won the 2022 marathon with a time of 2:45:42. In the men's division, Jorge Maravilla won the 2019 marathon with a time of 2:28:23, while Karl Augsten won the 2022 marathon with a time of 2:29:22.

Qualifying Times

The Napa Valley Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifying race, meaning that runners who meet certain time standards can use their finish time at the Napa Valley Marathon to qualify for the Boston Marathon. The Boston Marathon is one of the most prestigious marathons in the world, and qualifying for it is a major achievement for many runners.

In addition to the Boston Marathon, the Napa Valley Marathon is also a qualifying race for the Olympic Marathon Trials. The Olympic Marathon Trials are held every four years, and the top three finishers in the men's and women's races qualify to represent the United States in the Olympic Games.

To qualify for the Boston Marathon, male runners must complete the Napa Valley Marathon in under 3 hours and 5 minutes, while female runners must complete the race in under 3 hours and 35 minutes. To qualify for the Olympic Marathon Trials, male runners must complete the race in under 2 hours and 19 minutes, while female runners must complete the race in under 2 hours and 45 minutes.

The Napa Valley Marathon also has a special category for masters runners, which includes runners over the age of 40. Masters runners who meet certain time standards can qualify for the Boston Marathon and the Olympic Marathon Trials just like younger runners.

Finally, the Napa Valley Marathon is open to wheelchair athletes, who compete in their own division. The top wheelchair athletes receive cash prizes and medals, just like the runners in the able-bodied divisions.

Travel and Accommodation

Lodging

Napa Valley Marathon is a popular event that attracts runners from different parts of the world. If you are planning to participate in the marathon, it is essential to book your accommodation in advance to avoid last-minute hassles. There are several lodging options available in Napa, California, and nearby areas, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts.

Some of the popular accommodation options in Napa include the Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa, the Westin Verasa Napa, and the Andaz Napa. These hotels offer comfortable rooms, excellent amenities, and proximity to the marathon course. Visitors can also consider staying in nearby areas such as Sonoma, Yountville, or St. Helena, which offer a variety of lodging options.

Transportation

Participants can reach Napa Valley by air, road, or rail. The nearest airport to Napa is the Oakland International Airport, which is about 50 miles away. San Francisco International Airport and Sacramento International Airport are other airports that are located within a reasonable distance from Napa.

If you are driving to Napa, there are several parking options available near the marathon course. Visitors can park their vehicles in designated parking lots or garages. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid traffic and find a parking spot.

Alternatively, visitors can take the Amtrak train to Napa Valley. The Amtrak station is located in downtown Napa, and visitors can take a taxi or shuttle to their accommodation or the marathon course.

Overall, visitors have several transportation options to reach Napa Valley and can choose the one that suits their needs and budget.

Race History and Records

The Napa Valley Marathon is an annual marathon, half marathon, and 5K held in Napa County, California. The USATF-certified marathon course begins in Calistoga at the northwestern tip of Napa County and then traverses the Silverado Trail, ending in downtown Napa. The race's course is primarily rolling hills or flat as it moves through the scenic Napa Valley.

Past Champions

Over the years, the Napa Valley Marathon has attracted elite runners from around the world. Some of the past champions include Ann Centner, Peter Gilmore, Jonathan Pascual, and Rob Balucas. These runners have set impressive records that have yet to be broken. Ann Centner set the women's course record in 1992 with a time of 2:40:17, while Peter Gilmore holds the men's course record with a time of 2:18:40, set in 1987.

Historical Highlights

The Napa Valley Marathon has a rich history, dating back to its inaugural race in 1979. Since then, the race has grown in popularity, attracting thousands of runners from across the country. In 2013, the Boston Marathon bombings occurred just weeks before the Napa Valley Marathon was set to take place. In response, the organizers of the Napa Valley Marathon held a moment of silence before the race and donated a portion of the proceeds to the One Fund Boston, which supported the victims and families affected by the bombings.

In recent years, the Napa Valley Marathon has continued to draw runners of all levels, from elite athletes to first-time marathoners. The race offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Napa Valley while challenging oneself in a marathon setting. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a newcomer to the sport, the Napa Valley Marathon is a race that's not to be missed.

Additional Events

In addition to the Kaiser Permanente Napa Valley Marathon, there are several other races that take place during the race weekend. One of the most popular is the Wineshine Half Marathon, which takes runners through the beautiful vineyards of Napa Valley. The half marathon is a great option for those who want to experience the beauty of the valley without committing to a full marathon.

For those who prefer shorter distances, there is the 3.9-miler, which is a fun run that takes place on Saturday before the marathon. This race is open to runners of all ages and abilities, and it is a great way to get into the spirit of the race weekend.

Community Runs

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Napa 5K is a community run that takes place on the morning of the marathon. This race is open to runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, and it is a great way to support the local community. The proceeds from the race go to support local charities, and participants receive a t-shirt and a medal for their efforts.

In addition to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Napa 5K, there are several other community runs that take place during the race weekend. These runs are a great way to get involved in the local community and to support a good cause.

Overall, the Napa Valley Marathon race weekend offers a variety of events for runners and non-runners alike. Whether you are looking to run a full marathon, a half marathon, or just a fun run, there is something for everyone.

Race Organization

Directors and Staff

The Napa Valley Marathon is organized by Napa Valley Marathon, Inc. (NVM, Inc.), a non-profit organization that has been in operation for over 43 years. The race director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the race, from planning to execution. The current race director is supported by a team of experienced staff members who are responsible for various aspects of the race, including logistics, marketing, and communications.

Volunteer Opportunities

The success of the Napa Valley Marathon is largely due to the hard work and dedication of its volunteers. Each year, over 1,000 volunteers donate their time and service to help make the race a success. Volunteer opportunities are available in a variety of areas, including registration, aid stations, course marshaling, and finish line support.

Volunteers are an integral part of the Napa Valley Marathon, and the race organizers are committed to providing a positive and rewarding volunteer experience. All volunteers receive training and support, and are given the opportunity to work in areas that best match their skills and interests.

Kaiser Permanente is a proud sponsor of the Napa Valley Marathon, and provides support for the race through a variety of initiatives. In addition to providing financial support, Kaiser Permanente also provides medical support for the race, including on-course medical stations and a medical tent at the finish line.

Overall, the Napa Valley Marathon is a well-organized and professionally-run event, thanks to the dedication and hard work of the race directors, staff, volunteers, and sponsors.

Sponsorship and Partnerships

The Napa Valley Marathon has a long history of partnering with corporate sponsors and local businesses to support the event and the community. This section will highlight some of the significant partnerships and sponsorships for the event.

Corporate Sponsors

One of the major corporate sponsors of the Napa Valley Marathon is Kaiser Permanente. Kaiser Permanente is a non-profit healthcare organization that has been providing quality healthcare services for over 75 years. The partnership between Kaiser Permanente and the Napa Valley Marathon is a natural fit as both organizations are committed to promoting health and wellness in the community.

Another corporate sponsor of the Napa Valley Marathon is Conn Creek Winery. Conn Creek Winery is located on the Silverado Trail and is one of the most world-renowned wineries in the Napa Valley. The partnership between Conn Creek Winery and the Napa Valley Marathon is a perfect match as both organizations are dedicated to promoting the Napa Valley as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts and marathon runners.

Local Businesses

The Napa Valley Marathon also partners with local businesses to provide support for the event. One of the local businesses that partner with the Napa Valley Marathon is Cause. Cause is a local restaurant that specializes in healthy and organic food. The partnership between Cause and the Napa Valley Marathon is a natural fit as both organizations are committed to promoting healthy living in the community.

Another local business that partners with the Napa Valley Marathon is Division. Division is a local running store that specializes in running shoes and apparel. The partnership between Division and the Napa Valley Marathon is a perfect match as both organizations are dedicated to promoting running as a healthy lifestyle choice.

In conclusion, the Napa Valley Marathon has established strong partnerships and sponsorships with both corporate sponsors and local businesses. These partnerships and sponsorships help to support the event and the community, and promote health and wellness in the Napa Valley.

Race Impact

Economic Benefits

The Napa Valley Marathon is not only a great race for runners, but it also has a significant impact on the local economy. According to a survey conducted by the Napa Valley Register, the local economic impact of the marathon is between $593,000 and $1,465,000 annually in direct spending. This includes spending on lodging, food, and beverage, transportation, and retail. The race attracts runners and spectators from all over the world, which contributes to the local economy.

In addition to the direct spending, the marathon also has an impact on the local wine industry. The race passes through some of the most world-renowned vineyards and wineries in the area, which promotes the wine country and encourages visitors to explore the region. The race organizers also partner with local wineries to offer wine tastings to the runners and spectators, which helps to promote the local wine industry.

Environmental Considerations

The Napa Valley Marathon is committed to reducing its environmental impact. The race organizers work with local organizations to recycle and compost as much waste as possible. They also encourage runners to carpool or use public transportation to reduce the carbon footprint of the event.

The race course is designed to minimize the impact on the environment. The rolling hills and scenic countryside provide a beautiful backdrop for the race, while also minimizing the need for road closures and other disruptions. The race organizers also work with local authorities to ensure that the race is safe and does not have a negative impact on the local community.

Overall, the Napa Valley Marathon is a high-quality road racing event that has a significant impact on the local economy and promotes the region's wine industry. The race organizers are committed to minimizing the environmental impact of the event and ensuring that it is safe and enjoyable for everyone involved.

FAQs and Contact Information

Common Questions

Here are some common questions that runners may have about the Napa Valley Marathon:

  • What is the date of the next Napa Valley Marathon? The next Napa Valley Marathon is scheduled for March 3, 2024.
  • Where does the marathon start and finish? The full marathon starts in Calistoga and finishes in Napa. The half marathon starts in Yountville and finishes in Napa.
  • What is the course like? The course is a point-to-point route that passes vineyards, wineries, and scenery along the Silverado Trail. It is a challenging course with rolling hills.
  • What is the entry fee? The entry fee varies depending on the race and when you register. Check the registration page for the latest pricing information.
  • What is the cancellation policy? If you need to cancel, you may take the amount of your entry fee as a charitable donation on your income tax return. Check the cancellation FAQs for more information.

Race Communication

If you have any questions or concerns about the Napa Valley Marathon, you can contact the organizers via email or mail:

  • Email: For questions regarding elite athletes, media, volunteers, or scholarships, email the appropriate address listed on the contact page. For general inquiries, email info@napavalleymarathon.org.
  • Mail: You can also contact the organizers by mail at the following address:Napa Valley Marathon
    PO Box 4307
    Napa, CA 94558-0430

The organizers strive to respond to all inquiries as quickly as possible. If you have any questions or concerns about the Napa Valley Marathon, don't hesitate to reach out to them for more information.