Virginia Beach, VA – September 25, 2026 – The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend announced today that renowned American distance runner Des Linden will be the special guest for the 55th running of the event, taking place March 19-21, 2027. Linden, the 2018 Boston Marathon champion and two-time Olympian, will make appearances throughout the weekend, from the pre-race expo to the finish line celebrations.
Linden, celebrated for her gritty 2018 Boston victory and her longevity in the sport, will bring her signature blend of tenacity and authenticity to Virginia Beach. Her presence marks a significant addition to the historic race weekend, which has been a local staple since 1972.
Amy Frostick, Race Director for J&A Racing, expressed her excitement about welcoming Linden to the event. “Des Linden embodies the spirit of the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend—resilient, community-focused, and passionate about the sport of running,” said Frostick. “Her historic win in Boston inspired millions, and we are thrilled to have her here in Virginia Beach to inspire our runners. Having a champion of her caliber at the expo and waiting at the finish line will make this a truly unforgettable experience for our participants and the entire community.”
Des Linden made history in 2018 as the first American woman to win the Boston Marathon since 1985, braving torrential rain and headwinds to break a 33-year drought. A two-time Olympian who finished 7th at the Rio Games, Linden was an All-American at Arizona State University before turning professional. In 2021, she set the women’s 50K world record, becoming the first female to break the three-hour barrier. She trains in Northern Michigan, represents Brooks Running, and co-hosts the podcast Nobody Asked Us with Des & Kara. A self-proclaimed bacon aficionado, she enjoys collecting whiskeys and relaxing with her dogs, Rivers and Boston.
“I’ve heard so many incredible things about the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon over the years. I can’t wait to finally get to Virginia Beach, experience everything this weekend has to offer, and mix it up with the local running community.”, says Des Linden.
The 2027 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend is set to take place March 19-21, 2027. Registration is currently open and is expected to sell out.
For more information about the event or to register, please visit shamrockmarathon.com
Photo Credit: J&A Racing & Brooks Running
About J&A Racing
J&A Racing is a nationally recognized race management company based in Virginia Beach, Virginia. With a portfolio of 9 events, J&A Racing’s mission is to promote and support healthy lifestyles and the sport of running through all stages of life. Since 2003 when J&A Racing owners, Amy and Jerry Frostick, took over the Shamrock Sportsfest, the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend has become one of the most popular running events in the country. Additionally, J&A Racing organizes the ADP Corporate 5K; the Getem Services Big Blue 5K; Chartway Virginia Beach 10 Miler and 5K; Sentara Crawlin’ Crab Half Marathon & 5K; Wicked 10K & 5K; the Chartway Norfolk Harbor Half Marathon, 10K & 5K; the BayPort Credit Union Surf-N-Santa 5 Miler; and the Sun Up to Sun Down 50K. For more information on J&A Racing’s events, visit jandaracing.com