While the pipeline was quiet today, we’re looking ahead at a packed race calendar. Here are the standout half marathons you should have on your radar.
This Weekend: A Connecticut Classic
This Saturday, August 1, the 64th Annual Ocean Beach/John & Jessie Kelley Half Marathon returns to New London, Connecticut. As one of the oldest continuously run half marathons in the country, it’s a bucket-list race with a scenic oceanfront course. If you’re in the Northeast, this is your shot at a piece of running history — and it’s still open for registration.
Fast Approaching: Alaska & Ohio
August 15 is shaping up to be a big day. On that Saturday you can run the Anchorage RunFest in Alaska — a cool summer escape with spectacular mountain views — or head to Parkersburg, West Virginia for the Parkersburg News and Sentinel Half Marathon and Two Mile Race, a flat, fast course that’s a favorite for PR seekers.
Earlier, on August 8, the Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k takes place in Akron, Ohio. This race winds through the historic Goodyear campus and is known for its well-organized event and spirited finish line.
End of Summer: Virginia, Washington, Illinois
- August 29: The Ashland Half Marathon & 5k in Ashland, Virginia offers a small-town feel with rolling hills — perfect for a late-summer getaway.
- August 30: The Iron Horse Half Marathon in North Bend, Washington follows a scenic rail-trail through the Cascade foothills. Expect cool temperatures and stunning forest scenery.
- September 5 (Labor Day weekend): The Naperville Trails Half Marathon & 10K in Wheaton, Illinois is a trail race through the Danada Forest Preserve — a great way to close out summer with some dirt under your shoes.
Last Call: Run Mahomet — This Saturday
If you’re in central Illinois, don’t miss July 31’s Run Mahomet in Mahomet. It’s a low-key community race that sells out every year. And with two Illinois races on the calendar (Naperville Trails is also Illinois), it’s a strong late-summer state for half marathoners.
August 15 also stands out as a two-race day — Anchorage and Parkersburg offer completely different experiences but are both guaranteed to be memorable. Start planning your next race now — these fields will fill fast.