Spectators

SPECTATORS

ATHLETE TRACKING

Friends and family can track a runner’s progress in the marathon or half marathon by signing up in advance to receive text messages. More…

QUICK ANSWERS

How can I find out if a runner has finished?
Results for all events will be published on HMF’s website immediately as a runner crosses the finish line.

How can I find out if someone has dropped out of the race or is in the Medical Area?
Check at the Information Tent located on the east side of Bushnell Park.

What are the best places to watch the marathon and half marathon?
Catch the race start* for the full and half marathon on Capitol Avenue in front of the majestic CT State Capitol. Buzzing with energy, excitement is in the air as a sea of thousands of runners pass through the start.

The newly redesigned routes make spectating a breeze, even for those who prefer to stay nearby the start and finish line areas. Both the marathon and half marathon courses now pass by the north side of Bushnell Park at around mile 8.

The most inspiring of all places on marathon day is the finish line area on Trinity Street at Bushnell Park. Visit the Final Turn Cheer Zone, presented by Stanley Black & Decker, for music and great viewing of all race distance participants as they cross under the iconic Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Arch on their home stretch to the finish line.

Or, cheer from the bleachers at the finish line. Witness the indomitable human spirit reveal itself over and over as participants cross the finish and celebrate their great accomplishment.

Interested in seeing more from the courses? There are walking and driving options to consider (note road closures when making your spectating plan).

After the race starts, walk over to Mortensen Riverfront Plaza (~1 mile east of Bushnell Park) at the Founder’s Bridge. From here, you’ll be able to cheer marathon participants on as they leave the city and head into East Hartford (mile 9), or watch half marathoners make their way along the beautifully maintained riverfront path (mile 11). It’s a spectacular sight on both sides of the Connecticut River!

Or, plan ahead to drive to Morley Elementary School (77 Bretton Road, West Hartford), to park and catch marathoners and half marathoners at mile 3.2.

To catch full marathon participants twice on the course, drive to Alumni Park/Town Green at 740 Main Street in East Hartford. Once parked, walk 1 block east on Richard Street to Prospect Street to watch mile 12.5 and 23.7

Another option to catch full marathon participants, drive to Wood Memorial Library at 783 Main Street in South Windsor. Park along Pleasant Valley Road and walk down to Main Street by the library to watch participants at mile 16.7 and 19.5.

NOTE: Driving along the race route is not permitted during the race. Many additional local roads will also be impacted, note road closures and consider using the highway if you are interested in navigating to a remote location along the course.

*5K start is located on Capitol Avenue (east of the Bushnell Theater).