Philadelphia Distance Run

The Philadelphia Distance Run is a half marathon held annually in Philadelphia on the third Sunday of September. Founded by Gene H. Martenson in 1978, the race retained its original name for many years before spending over a decade as part of the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Series. Local runners now organize the PDR, giving the event a distinct character compared to franchise races, despite its history of hosting significant international competitions. The 13.1-mile road race winds through Philadelphia, and its results feature an unusually strong field for a city half marathon. Lasse Virén, Rod Dixon, Michael Musyoki, Joan Samuelson, Deena Kastor, Mathew Kisorio, and Kim Smith are among those listed in its record book, with multiple world records, American records, and world-best times achieved here. The contemporary PDR also made history by introducing a nonbinary division at the elite level, following advocacy by local organizers such as C.C. Téllez, Lez Run, and Students Run Philly Style.