By Jennifer Jahn
NKyTribune staff writer
The Flying Pig Marathon is changing its course this year due to the demolition of the Fourth Street Bridge. The route will now extend farther into Northern Kentucky, using the 11th Street Bridge to cross from Newport to Covington. This adjustment adds more than a mile in Kentucky and required changes on the Ohio side to maintain the official marathon distance.
The starting line has also moved two blocks east to Rosa Parks Street, while the finish line will remain on West Mehring Way.
A nationally recognized race
The marathon consistently ranks among the nation’s top-tier races and recently earned second place on the 2026 Best Marathon list from USA TODAY 10 BEST Readers’ Choice Awards.
Runners and spectators alike favor the event for its scenic course along the Ohio River, its route through diverse neighborhoods, and the strong community support that lines the streets each year.
History of the Flying Pig
The first race was held on the first Sunday of May in 1999. It was founded by Robert J. Coughlin and quickly became one of the largest inaugural marathons in the country, ranking third for first-time participation.
The Flying Pig Marathon is also a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon. Since 2009, the race has seen eight repeat winners, adding to its competitive legacy.
More ways to join the fun
Participants of all ages and abilities can take part in Flying Pig weekend events:
• Flying Pig Marathon (26.2 mi) – Sunday, May 3, 6:30 a.m.
• Half Marathon (13.1 mi) – Sunday, May 3, 6:30 a.m.
• 10K (6.2 mi) – Saturday, May 2, 7 a.m.
• 5K (3.1 mi) – Saturday, May 2, 9 a.m.
• 50 West Mile (1 mi) – Friday, May 1, 7:p.m.
• 4-Person Relay (26.2 mi) – Sunday, May 3, 6:30 a.m.
• Flying Piglet (0.6 mi) – Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m.
• The 26th Mile (1 mi) – Saturday, May 2, noon
• PigAbilities (1 mi) – Saturday, May 2, 1 p.m.
• Flying Fur (1.3 mi) – Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m.
Why “Flying Pig”?
The race’s name is rooted in Cincinnati’s history. In the 1800s, the city was a major agricultural and commercial hub along the Ohio River, earning the nickname “Porkopolis” due to the large number of hogs processed there.
That legacy inspired the modern symbol of the flying pig. During Cincinnati’s 1988 Bicentennial riverfront redevelopment, designer Andrew Leicester incorporated smokestacks topped with flying pigs to reflect both the city’s riverboat heritage and its pork industry roots.
From its historical roots to its modern-day course changes, the Flying Pig Marathon continues to evolve while honoring Cincinnati’s past. Whether running, walking, or cheering from the sidelines, the event remains a celebration of community, endurance, and local pride that draws participants from across the region and beyond.
For more information check out Flying Pig Marathon.