Feb 2027 · est.Jacksonville Beach, FLSince 2008

Donna Marathon

The Donna Marathon runs along the Atlantic coast of Jacksonville Beach for a cause that draws thousands: every entry supports breast cancer research and patient care. Flat, fast, and full of heart.

FlatOpen
DONNA · US
Donna
FEB 2027
estimated
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Race Overview

EST. 2008

The Donna starts at Seawalk Pavilion right on Jacksonville Beach, and from the first mile you know this race has a different feel. People are running for something specific. Signs with names and photos line the course. Spectators aren't just cheering times, they're cheering people. It lands differently than most races, and it tends to keep you moving when your legs want to stop.

The course itself is flat, close to sea level the whole way, and loops through the beach communities. There's no major climb to dread or descent to bank. What you get is a pure pacing test on open coastal roads, and wind can be a real factor out there, so don't assume flat means easy. Registration is open, so getting in is straightforward, but sign up before capacity fills. A seven-hour time limit means a wide range of runners come through, and the atmosphere on course reflects that. If you want a race where the mission genuinely carries you through the hard miles, this one earns it.

Field size
BQ rate
6%
Near national average
Time limit
7:00
Generous cutoff
Entry
Open
First-come registration

The Course

Total ascent
Total descent
Net elevation
Highest point
29 ft
Lowest point
5 ft
Course shape
Loop
Start and finish in one place

The Donna Marathon is a loop course with almost no elevation to speak of. The highest point barely clears 29 feet and the lowest sits around 5 feet, so the course is effectively flat the whole way. For PR chasers, that's good news on paper, but the loop layout and coastal Florida terrain mean you'll face exposed stretches with little wind shelter. Salt air and potential onshore breeze can factor into pacing, especially in the back half. The surface is primarily road. There are no meaningful climbs to conserve energy for, so the pacing challenge is purely about discipline and conditions. Go out controlled.

Race-Day Weather

10-year median
Low
54°F
High
67°F
30°MARATHON-IDEAL 4560°80°
What to expect

February in Jacksonville Beach is mild but not warm. Expect a cool start, probably in the mid-50s, which is comfortable for the first few miles. By the back half of the race the temperature climbs into the mid-60s, which is manageable but worth noting if you tend to run hot. The coast adds wind to the equation, and an onshore breeze on an exposed loop can cost you more than the temperature does. Dress in light layers you can shed early, and don't skip hydration just because it feels cool at the gun.

Entry

OPEN

Registration opens in July with capacity-based availability. All proceeds benefit breast cancer research and patient support through The DONNA Foundation.

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From the Community

3 videos · YouTube
Donna Marathon cold preps
First Coast News
Donna Marathon runners prepare for freezing temperatures around Jacksonville Beach
First Coast News
We found Donna Deegan in The Donna Marathon 2024! Nice Job! #destinationhope #rundonna #jacksonville
Christine's Pelican Dreams

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