The Tucson Marathon has been one of the city's largest annual fitness events since its inception in 1995. The marathon route is located just north of the city limits, providing runners with a flat and fast route that is a favorite of runners trying to qualify for the Boston Marathon. The marathon also takes runners through some of the most scenic parts of the city. The marathon is part of a weekend-long fitness event. The day before the big race, a family running festival takes place on the University of Arizona campus, where kids and adults can run together and compete for prizes.