The Blackhorse Marathon in Honor of MG(R) Sunell
A Fort Irwin half marathon in cool desert air, with a Norwegian Foot March and post-race BBQ alongside.
Race Date
Dec 11, 2026
Location
Fort Irwin, CA
Quick facts
- Date
- Friday, December 11, 2026
- Location
- Fort Irwin, California
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Atmosphere
The Experience
On a desert morning at Fort Irwin, the Blackhorse Marathon in Honor of MG(R) Sunell is less a single race than a full day of them: a Norwegian Foot March, a marathon, a half marathon, a 5K, and a 1K kiddies race, all pointing toward a post-race BBQ.
The half's 21.1 kilometers unfold in conditions most race directors only dream about. Five-year averages put the start near 43°F and the finish around 64°F, with no measurable precipitation, 34% humidity, and a steady 7 mph breeze — cool, dry, and remarkably consistent.
The namesake is Major General (Ret.) Sunell, and the day carries the character of the military community that stages it. The field holds steady year to year, and the organizers keep things plain: a T-shirt with your entry, the option to add race insurance at registration, and a barbecue waiting when the running is done.
Race-provided description
The Blackhorse Marathon in Honor of MG(R) Sunell is made up of several events. The Norwegian Foot MarchMarathon1/2 Marathon5K1K Kiddies RacePost Race BBQ You MUST be a DOD Card Holder to register for this event or be sponsored by one. There is an option for race insurance when you register. Please fill out this form in addition to Event Registration through the Blackhorse Association. Registration on this form is required to receive your Norwegian Foot March certificate and proof of completion. Registration/sign up through the Blackhorse Association is required for event enrollment and gift reception (t-shirt and medal). https://forms.gle/dMPh5a7YLCWs8Yth9
Logistics
Race Day
Friday, December 11, 2026
Start Time
7:30 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
CPT Litynski RS3, Fort Irwin, CA, 92310
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
limited extras
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 64°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
43°
Afternoon (High)
64°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.0"
Precipitation
7 mph
Wind
34%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the The Blackhorse Marathon in Honor of MG(R) Sunell?
The The Blackhorse Marathon in Honor of MG(R) Sunell is held on Friday, December 11, 2026, starting at 7:30 AM.
Where does the The Blackhorse Marathon in Honor of MG(R) Sunell take place?
It takes place in Fort Irwin, California.
What distances does the The Blackhorse Marathon in Honor of MG(R) Sunell offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the The Blackhorse Marathon in Honor of MG(R) Sunell course flat and good for a PR?
The The Blackhorse Marathon in Honor of MG(R) Sunell is a rolling hills, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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