Marathon Project (Gold Wave)

Marathon Project (Gold Wave) takes place in Arizona on December 12, 2026. Two formats share the day: the Gold Wave marathon over the full 26.2 miles, and a 5K road race for anyone who wants a shorter effort. The field draws runners from many countries, and the mood is both competitive and festive.

The course moves between desert surroundings and more built-up sections, a contrast you notice as the miles go by. A marathon this late in the year rewards a long, patient build: 16 to 18 weeks, a weekly long run out to 20 miles, and a couple of sessions at goal pace so the effort feels familiar on race day. If you are here for the 5K, treat it as a short, sharp test of speed rather than an endurance day, and warm up properly before the start.