Why Every Finisher Matters at the Eau Claire Marathon
At the Eau Claire Marathon, we believe the heart of race day isn’t just at the front of the pack — it’s all the way to the very back.
The Back of the Pack Party is our commitment to celebrating every runner who crosses the finish line, no matter their pace. Because grit, perseverance, and heart deserve just as much recognition as fast times.
What Is the Back of the Pack Party?
The Back of the Pack Party is a high-energy, runner-focused initiative designed to bring encouragement, celebration, and support to those finishing later in the race.
It’s all about:
🎉 Cheering louder for runners giving everything they have
💪 Boosting spirits in the final miles when it gets toughest
🏁 Making every finisher feel like a rockstar
❤️ Creating an inclusive, supportive race-day experience
Volunteers, spectators, and supporters come together during the final hours of the event to ensure the energy never fades — from the first finisher to the very last.
Why It Matters
Every runner shows up with a different goal.
Some are chasing personal records.
Some are running their first-ever race.
Some are overcoming injuries, setbacks, or personal challenges.
No matter the reason, finishing is an achievement.
For runners near the back of the field, the final stretch can be the hardest — and that’s exactly where the Back of the Pack Party makes a difference. The cheers, music, and encouragement turn exhaustion into momentum and transform the finish line into a moment they’ll never forget.
From the Finish Line
“The finish was awesome. This was my first marathon and the BACK OF THE PACK crew celebrated my effort! Crossing the line they announced it was my first marathon… So supportive, great crowd, and a great town. Thank you.”
— Barb K.
Stories like this are why the Back of the Pack Party isn’t just a feature — it’s a core part of the Eau Claire Marathon experience.
Be Part of the Back of the Pack Party
The Eau Claire Marathon is about more than fast times — it’s about showing up for every runner.
You can be part of the Back of the Pack Party by:
Volunteering during the final hours of race day
Cheering along the course
Bringing signs, music, and positive energy
Supporting fellow runners when it matters most
Your enthusiasm helps turn tired steps into triumphant finishes — and reminds every runner that they belong here. Interested in learning more, email us at info@eauclairemarathon.com.
Because Every Finish Deserves a Celebration
Help us bring the energy that carries every runner across the finish line.
👉 [Register for the Eau Claire Marathon]
👉 [Volunteer on Race Weekend]
👉 [Learn More About Race Day Experience]
“The angels definitely descended...From the sweet lady with the ‘runners charcuterie’ at mile 24 to the stranger handing out water around mile 15, the EMS worker who stayed until the last marathoners passed, the signs and encouragement from neighbors, the pickles, and the ‘back of the pack party’ initiative, I felt supported every step of the way.And of course, my family, the lone student cheer squad through UWEC campus—it was a race filled with kindness, camaraderie, and a deep sense of community.As a three-year back of the pack runner, I couldn’t have felt more supported throughout the whole course.#runlikeangels”
“The finish was awesome. This was my first marathon and the “BACK OF THE PACK” crew celebrated my effort! Crossing the line they announced it was my first marathon, one young girl made certain I got a medal and water/banana! So supportive great crowd and the course is awesome, great town. Thank you.”
