The "gauntlets" in the Marine Corps Marathon are time checkpoints at specific mile markers that runners must reach or be diverted from the official course and not receive credit as an official finisher. To pass, runners must maintain a specific pace, and failure to meet the cutoff times means they are no longer on the certified course. The three main gauntlets are the DC Gauntlet (mile 17), Beat the Bridge (mile 20), and Crystal City Gauntlet (mile 22).
Gauntlet checkpoints and requirements
- DC Gauntlet (Mile 17): Must be reached by 12:33 p.m. to stay on the full marathon course.
- Beat the Bridge (Mile 20): Must cross the 14th Street Bridge by 1:15 p.m. If not, a bus will take runners to the finish line.
- Crystal City Gauntlet (Mile 22): Must be reached by 1:49 p.m. to remain on the certified course.
