We Run This City: Running Events Take Center Stage This Weekend

The stage is set, the competition is fierce, and Virginia Beach is ready to prove why it’s the ultimate destination for sports enthusiasts. Over the course of one thrilling weekend, the city will welcome two premier sporting events that celebrate endurance, speed and community spirit: the NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Indoor Track & Field Championships and the 53rd running of the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend. 

For the first time, the Virginia Beach Sports Center (VBSC) will host the prestigious NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Indoor Track & Field Championships on Friday, March 14, and Saturday, March 15. This milestone event will bring elite collegiate athletes from across the country to compete in a fast-paced showcase of speed, strength and endurance. Fans can witness the intensity of NCAA competition with track events ranging from sprints and relays to field events such as high jump and pole vault. ESPN+ will stream the championships live starting at 9:15 a.m. ET on Friday, March 14, and 9:30 a.m. ET on Saturday, March 15, with a re-air on ESPNU at 7 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 16. 

Adding to the energy of the weekend, the 53rd annual Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend will take over Virginia Beach, March 14-16. This beloved St. Patrick’s Day tradition welcomes runners of all levels to experience a flat, fast and scenic course along the stunning Coastal Virginia shoreline. 

Participants can choose from a variety of race distances including the marathon, half marathon and 8K, as well as multiple challenge options. But the celebration doesn’t stop at the finish line — runners and spectators alike can enjoy a post-race beach party featuring Yuengling beer and live music with the Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop. 

“Virginia Beach continues to solidify its reputation as a premier destination for world-class sporting events,” said Nancy Helman, Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau director. “Hosting the NCAA Indoor Track & Field Championships and the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend in the same weekend is a testament to the city’s infrastructure and our ability to bring together elite competition and community-driven events. We look forward to welcoming athletes, fans and visitors to experience the energy and excitement that make Virginia Beach a top-tier sports destination.” 

Virginia Beach is also hosting Interstate 64 Final, a wrestling tournament, at Virginia Beach Field House and Virginia Spring Classic, a soccer tournament, at Hampton Roads Soccer Complex. 

For more information or to buy tickets to the NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Indoor Track & Field Championships, visit the NCAA website. Information for the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend can be found on the race website. 

About Virginia Beach  
Virginia Beach, one of Virginia’s most populous cities, resides where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. The city is home to 35 miles of sandy beaches, a flourishing culinary and craft beer scene, rich history, a variety of arts and entertainment, and family-friendly attractions that keep visitors entertained year-round. For more Virginia Beach information, including new attractions and experiences, or to plan your next trip, visit www.visitvirginiabeach.com.