Chevron Houston Marathon 2025 in Texas
The largest single day athletic event in Houston
Dates: January 19, 2025
Chevron Houston Marathon and Aramco Houston Half Marathon are among the most popular races in Texas. The Houston Marathon and half marathon take place every January, attracting about 13,000 participants each. About 500,000 spectators cheer for the runners.
Chevron Houston Marathon Route
The Houston Marathon course is quite fast and flat. It starts near Minute Maid Park downtown and goes through many green and scenic areas like Houston Heights, Neartown, Hermann Park, Rice University, Uptown, Memorial Park, and Allen Parkway. The marathon finishes at the George R. Brown Convention Center. The course is suitable to qualify for the Boston Marathon. It was used for the women's Olympic Trials in 1992, the USATF Men's Half Marathon Championship in 2005-2008, and the U.S Olympic Marathon Trials for both men and women in 2012. The time limit for the course is 6 hours.
Marathon's Starting Time
Athletes with disabilities, wheelchair, and handcycle participants begin at 6:35 am. The Aramco Houston Half Marathon elite field starts at 6:45 am. The Chevron Houston Marathon elite field starts at 6:55 am, followed by the open fields for both the marathon and half marathon. This ensures smooth coordination and a competitive atmosphere for all participants.
Where to Watch
The Houston Marathon offers a vibrant cheer experience with designated spots along its 26.2-mile route. Spectators can catch the Marathon Elvis at Washington & Sabine or enjoy the beats of the Aldine High School Drumline near Waugh and Feagan. Charity Miles zones at West Gray, Kirby, and Bissonnet highlight the event's philanthropic spirit. Waugh & Bell hosts The Great Pretenders, delivering live music, while Westheimer & Kirby becomes a cultural hub with performances by Asociación Folklórica Boliviana.
At Kirby & Norfolk, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo brings a Texan vibe, and spectators near Bissonnet & Greenbriar can join the Fleet Feet and Brooks Watch Party. Further cultural charm is found at Montrose & Bartlett with the Italian Cultural & Community Center, and the West University Mayor’s Breakfast at University & Auden offers community warmth. The race route is packed with energy and enthusiasm for both runners and supporters.
Chevron Houston Marathon History
Houston Marathon was first held in 1972 with just 113 runners and 200 spectators. The marathon is sponsored by Chevron Corporation, while Aramco sponsors the half marathon. The race attracted a few celebrities like George W. Bush who ran in the Houston Marathon in 1993, finishing within 3 hours 44 minutes.