Middendorf—for his achievement. Marathon organizers examined the course for the 1977 MCM and secured permits to run through Washington, D.C. The new route laid the foundation for the scenic course in place today, starting in Arlington, Virginia, winding its way around key landmarks in the nation's capital, and returning for the traditional finish at the Marine Corps War Memorial. With changes to the course and a surge of positive publicity from the first running, the second MCM drew a field of 2,655 runners. Participation in the MCM steadily increased over the next few years, resulting in a transfer of race coordination from the Marine Corps Reserve to active-duty Marines at Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C. Shortly thereafter, even more growth necessitated a move south to Marine Corps Base Quantico in 1982, where the MCM headquarters remains today. Additions to MCM weekend include the MCM10K, starting at the National Mall and finishing at the Iwo Jima monument; the MCM Kids Run, a event held one day prior to the MCM; and the MCM Forward, where Marines stationed throughout the world participate in a satellite run simultaneously with the MCM. The MCM and all associated events continue to promote physical fitness, generate community goodwill and showcase the organizational skills of the United States Marine Corps. The running of the 44th Marine Corps Marathon took place on October 27, 2019. The 2020 in-person edition of the race was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, with all registrants given the option of transferring their entry to 2021, 2022, or 2023 or obtaining a full refund. Similarly, the 2021 in-person edition of the race was cancelled due to the pandemic, with all registrants given the option of running the race virtually, transferring their entry to 2022, or obtaining a full refund. Course The course, which varies slightly from year to year, is certified by USA Track and Field. The current route starts in Arlington, Virginia, on Route 110 and winds its way through Rosslyn along Lee Highway before turning on Spout Run and the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Runners experience a climb on Lee Highway in the first few miles of the course, but are rewarded with a descent along Spout Run and the Parkway. After crossing Key Bridge into Georgetown, runners used to turn toward the Palisades Community when the course followed Canal Road, up to the reservoir and down MacArthur Boulevard. However, the new