Myrtle Beach Marathon moves forward amid pandemic; 5,000 participants expected
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WPDE) — The Myrtle Beach Marathon event is moving forward amid the pandemic according to a resolution passed by the city council.
Council declared the 2021 Myrtle Beach Marathon scheduled for March 6 and related events as significant sports tourism and confirmed the city's co-sponsorship of the event.
The marathon has been a significant winter sports tourism event since February 1997.
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Due to COVID-19 protocols, there will be no fitness expo on the Friday before the race, and no Family Fun Run will take place.
These two events will be held virtually for the 2021 event.
The 5K, full marathon and half marathon should attract about 5,000 athletes.
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Direct visitor event spending is projected to be an estimated $1.7 million, with city taxes and business license fees totaling around $31,000.
In addition, the city will receive a $5 fee per full marathon and half marathon runner, which is projected to total $15,000 to $20,000.
City event expenses are estimated to total $105,000.
The city does have the ability to cancel or postpone if necessary as the event gets closer.
