Organisers of the Edmonton Marathon have admitted the 2026 course was more than half a kilometre too long. This admission follows complaints from numerous runners regarding the distance.
The error meant the course was an additional 674.4 metres longer than the standard 42.195 kilometres. Race director Tom Keogh stated on Tuesday that a thorough examination concluded the added length was due to a detour implemented to avoid construction around the Wellington Bridge.
The extended course resulted in runners' personal bests being upended and potentially prevented some from breaking records. Participants hoping to use the Edmonton race as a qualifier for the Boston Marathon may also have been affected.
Initially, organisers had stated the course was officially certified and correct. However, in statements on Tuesday, they admitted a mistake was made, with Keogh saying, "We do not take this lightly." He added that the race, which took place on Sunday, will undergo a review of its certification process to prevent future errors.