Two Cities Marathon
The Two Cities Marathon offers a fast, flat course in California's Central Valley, ideal for PRs.
Race Date
Nov 1, 2026
Location
Fresno, CA
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, November 1, 2026
- Location
- Fresno, California
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 26.2 Miles, 10K, 3.1 Miles, Virtual Run
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 35,097
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Now in its 22nd year, the Two Cities Marathon series in California's Central Valley is a beloved fixture for runners seeking a fast, flat course. First run in 2003, this event has grown into a significant race, drawing approximately 2,900 finishers in recent years, with participants traveling from around 15 states.
The half marathon, like its full marathon counterpart, is celebrated for its exceptionally flat profile, making it a prime location for personal bests. This course is designed to be forgiving for both elite athletes and newcomers to the half marathon distance. The event is presented by CalViva Health and takes place along the border of Fresno and Clovis.
With a repeat-runner rate of about 26%, the Two Cities Marathon demonstrates strong loyalty from its participants. The race offers a quality event shirt and hoodie as swag, and the typical winning time for the half marathon hovers around 1 hour and 14 minutes, indicating a competitive yet accessible field.
Race-provided description
In its 18th year and presented by CalViva Health, 2CM takes place in the central valley of California along the border of Fresno and Clovis. Our events offer scenic and truly flat PR courses for elite and beginners alike. Unique features of our Boston qualifying marathon distance include the Boston Challenge and an exciting Final Mile Competition in the full and half distances.
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, November 1, 2026
Start Time
6:30 AM
Giveaway
Event Shirt & Hoodie
Start Location
Clovis Community College, Fresno, CA, 93730
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Urban
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
Standout8022 years running
~2,770 finishers a year
growing or steady
26% returning runners
5 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 15 states
winner 1:13:48
typical high 72°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
48°
Afternoon (High)
72°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.0"
Precipitation
7 mph
Wind
61%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 35,097 finishers actually crossed the line across 22 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
35,097
Median time
2:15:29
Latest turnout
1,470
States
46
Turnout by year
2017–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Two Cities Marathon?
The Two Cities Marathon is held on Sunday, November 1, 2026, starting at 6:30 AM.
Where does the Two Cities Marathon take place?
It takes place in Fresno, California.
What distances does the Two Cities Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 26.2 Miles, 10K, 3.1 Miles, Virtual Run.
Is the Two Cities Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The Two Cities Marathon is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the Two Cities Marathon?
HalfRuns has finish records for 35,097 runners who have completed the Two Cities Marathon.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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