The Glasgow 2014 Marathon will start and finish in Glasgow Green covering a route that will take in iconic Glasgow landmarks and give spectators a superb chance of seeing the race.

The Organsing Committee today (Friday 7 February) revealed the full route which will see elite runners from around the Commonwealth compete against each other against a stunning backdrop that includes the Merchant City, George Square, Buchanan Street and the Clyde Arc as well as two further ‘Dear Green Places’: Bellahouston Park and Pollok Park.

Athletes undertaking the 42.195km (26.2miles) route on Sunday 27 July will also cross the River Clyde four times as they push themselves towards the finish line, Gold and glory.
Spectators won’t require a ticket to be a part of the Games along the Marathon route as it is one of three free events taking place in the city.

Further free to view events will be both Cycling Road Race and Time Trial competitions and the routes of these will be announced shortly.

Marathon runners will also experience the unique atmosphere of the world-famous ‘Hampden Roar’, Glasgow 2014 can confirm.

The Marathon medal ceremonies will take place within Scotland’s packed National Stadium, which has already sold out of available tickets for Glasgow 2014 Athletics competitions.

The course has been developed in collaboration with a range of sport, city and tourism stakeholders to ensure that the sport technical requirements are achieved while balancing this unique opportunity to showcase the city to the world.

Designed in conjunction with Scottish Athletics, it has also received endorsement from the IAAF and will receive final certification closer to Games time.

Glasgow 2014 is working with partners including Glasgow City Council and Transport Scotland to minimise any disruption on the day of the event, which will see temporary changes put in place for traffic.

Travel conditions are expected to be different to normal across the city and spectators are advised to plan their travel in advance.

Derek Hawkins, who will compete in the Glasgow 2014 Marathon for Team Scotland, said:
“I experienced the roar of a home crowd first-hand at the London Marathon when I set the qualifying standard for the Commonwealth Games and I have no doubt the support in Glasgow will make a huge difference to me. It’s fantastic for me to know the route to map it out fully in my head and start to think about when to push hard.”

David Grevemberg, Glasgow 2014 Chief Executive, said:
“The Glasgow 2014 Marathon is a wonderful showcase event for the Games and one that everyone can come and enjoy. The route the athletes will take really shows Glasgow at its best and will bring the spectacle of live competitive sport right into the heart of the city.

“The Marathon is one of the three free events on offer, showing you don’t need a ticket to enjoy the unique Commonwealth Games experience. We’re looking forward to seeing thousands of sports fans line the route to cheer on the athletes as they push towards the finish line and the special atmosphere of Glasgow Green.”

Michael Cavanagh, Chairman of Commonwealth Games Scotland, said:
“Glasgow is packed with iconic landmarks and the Marathon will show them at their best, providing a magnificent backdrop for the athletes. It is an exciting opportunity for the public to show their support and see the Commonwealth’s leading runners at close quarters. For all Team Scotland selected athletes discovering the route and the medal ceremony location today will provide further excitement and anticipation for what we hope will get our athletics campaign off to a successful start.”

Nigel Holl, Chief Executive, Scottish Athletics, said:
“The route for the Marathon is a classic! A tremendous combination that picks up and reflects so much of the wonderful contrasts Glasgow has to offer – stunning architecture in the city centre, vibrant riverside developments, and the quite beautiful parks that Glasgow is rightly proud about.

“Many Scottish runners have over the years run various sections on the route when completing the Great Scottish Run, so whether watching on TV, or thronging the streets, there will be an understanding and appreciation from the crowd – as well as admiration for the speed, athleticism, and determination on show. Two laps and two races at the same time mean it’ll be a busy course – wonderful for spectators at all points on the route. I can’t wait.”