UC Marathon
This Boston Qualifier is one of the nation’s fastest and flattest courses—your best shot at earning a spot in the world’s biggest races.
Experience one of the nation’s fastest and flattest Boston Qualifying courses as runners return to the heart of West Virginia’s capital city for an unforgettable race weekend as the UC Marathon returns April 10–11, 2027.
Registration is Now Open
The UC Marathon and Half Marathon return on Sunday, April 11, 2027, with the UC Marathon 5K kicking off race weekend on Saturday, April 10.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best, completing your first marathon, or joining family and friends for an unforgettable weekend, there is a distance for every runner.
Race Weekend Events
The marathon race begins on the UC campus.
- UC Marathon 5K — Saturday, April 10
- UC Marathon and Half Marathon — Sunday, April 11
Early Registration Pricing
Register early and secure the lowest available price.
July 13 – October 10:
- Marathon: $120
- Half Marathon: $80
- 5K: $35
Prices increase throughout the year as race weekend approaches. More pricing information is below.
Explore the Course
Explore the UC Marathon course using the interactive map below. This detailed map provides a complete route overview, including key landmarks and mile markers throughout Charleston.
Certified Course
This USATF-certified course is built for fast times, personal records, and Boston Marathon qualifying goals. Runners can also use their results to qualify for other world-renowned races, including Chicago, New York, London, and more.
The certification positions the UC Marathon as a destination race and gives runners the opportunity to experience a nationally recognized course in the heart of West Virginia.
About the Course
The 2027 UC Marathon features a fast and flat 26.2-mile route through some of Charleston’s most iconic locations, including Downtown Charleston, the historic Elk City district, the West Virginia State Capitol, Kanawha City, and the University of Charleston’s scenic riverfront campus.
Competitive runners will find a course designed for speed, while recreational runners will experience a one-of-a-kind tour of West Virginia’s capital city.
A Race for Every Runner
Not ready for 26.2? The UC Marathon weekend also includes a half marathon on Sunday, April 11, and a 5K on Saturday, April 10. Whether you run, walk, compete, or cheer from the sidelines, everyone can be part of race weekend.
Travel to Charleston, WV
(Driving Directions to the UC Marathon Starting Line)
For GPS or Google Maps, use 240 Capitol Street, Charleston, WV 25301 to get directions to the marathon start.
From Interstates I-77, I-79, I-64, or the West Virginia Turnpike, take Exit 100 (Leon Sullivan Way) to get to Downtown Charleston.
Please note that traffic will be rerouted on race day because of street closures. Updated information will be shared closer to the event through email.
(Flying to Charleston, West Virginia)
The nearest airport is West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW), located just 10 minutes from Downtown Charleston and the UC Downtown Innovation Hub near the race start and finish.
The airport offers direct flights to major cities including Charlotte, Atlanta, Chicago, and Washington, D.C.
Taxis, rideshares, and rental cars are available through Yeager Airport.
Lodging & Accommodations
The UC Marathon Preferred Hotel is Four Points by Sheraton Charleston.
Parking & Transportation
Free and convenient parking will be available throughout Downtown Charleston within walking distance of the start and finish areas.
Additional parking, shuttle, and race-day transportation information will be shared closer to race weekend.
Visiting Charleston, WV
Make your race weekend a Charleston getaway. Charleston offers great food, local shops, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly attractions just minutes from the marathon route.
- Eat: Try local favorites like 1010 Bridge, Hale House, Lola’s, Pies & Pints, and Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream.
- Explore: Visit the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences, Capitol Market, and the West Virginia State Capitol grounds.
- Adventure: Walk or bike along the Kanawha River Trail or visit New River Gorge National Park — just 90 minutes away.
Explore More with the UC Adventure Guide
Race Weekend Experience
The UC Marathon will include pre-race and post-race activities throughout Downtown Charleston, including the Spilman Thomas & Battle Spaghetti Dinner and family-friendly opportunities to celebrate and support runners.
Additional race weekend details will be announced closer to the event.
Packet Pickup
Runners can pick up their race packets on the University of Charleston’s campus during the following times:
- Friday, April 9, 2027: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Saturday, April 10, 2027: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Relive the Inaugural UC Marathon
The inaugural UC Marathon welcomed 785 runners from 40 states and five countries to the Capital City.
Hosted by the University of Charleston in partnership with the City of Charleston and the Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau, the event brought thousands together and established a new tradition for Charleston and the UC community.
Results from the 2026 UC Marathon
University of Charleston Honors College students played an important role in bringing the UC Marathon to life by helping plan, promote, and execute the event.
UC Marathon Official Finisher Photos
Proceeds from the race support future opportunities for Honors College scholars and student leaders.
Where can I find updates and announcements?
For more information, please check out the UC Marathon FAQ. If you are authorizing another person to pick up your packet, the disclosure form is linked here.
Registration Pricing
Register early to secure the lowest available price. Registration fees increase throughout the year as race weekend approaches.
July 13 – October 10, 2026
- Marathon: $120
- Half Marathon: $80
- 5K: $35
October 11 – December 10, 2026
- Marathon: $135
- Half Marathon: $95
- 5K: $40
December 11, 2026 – February 10, 2027
- Marathon: $150
- Half Marathon: $110
- 5K: $45
February 11 – April 1, 2027
- Marathon: $165
- Half Marathon: $125
- 5K: $50
Last-Minute Registration (April 2 – April 10, 2027)
- Marathon: $175
- Half Marathon: $135
- 5K: $55
All registration fees are subject to applicable taxes and processing fees.
