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2027 Sam Costa Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon

2027 Sam Costa Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon

Sam Costa Half Marathon: Indiana’s oldest destination half with loyal return runners.

Race Date

Mar 20, 2027

Location

Carmel, IN

Runner Favorite86

Quick facts

Date
Saturday, March 20, 2027
Location
Carmel, Indiana
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi)
Course
Loop Course
Terrain
Road
USATF certified
Not listed

Highlights

Good For

Destination WorthyBeginner FriendlyPR Friendly

Atmosphere

Local CommunityWell OrganizedWell Supported

Course

Well MarkedNet Downhill

The Experience

The Sam Costa Half Marathon is Indiana’s longest-running destination half, first run in 1970 and now a beloved early-season test for local and visiting runners alike. With a median field of about 240 and recent growth to nearly 500, it draws participants from 9 states, and more than a third of runners return year after year. The race starts and finishes at Northview Church in Carmel, where the Student Activity Center offers a warm indoor gathering space before and after the event.

The 2024 course update made for a safer, faster route with fewer turns. The USATF-certified course is net downhill and well-supported, with water stops every mile and volunteers at every corner—earning praise for being “very well marked.” Finishers receive a short-sleeve shirt and a strong sense of community, with all proceeds benefiting Indy Runners and Walkers and local running programs.

Race-provided description

The Sam Costa Half and Quarter Marathons are Indiana's oldest destination road races, held annually in Carmel, IN. The course was updated in 2024 for improved safety and fewer turns. Distances include a half marathon (13.109 miles) and a quarter marathon (6.554 miles). The event benefits Indy Runners and Walkers, an RRCA-affiliated running and walking club.

Logistics

Race Day

Saturday, March 20, 2027

Start Time

TBA

Start Location

12900 Hazel Dell Parkway, Carmel, IN, 46033

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

road

Surface

Paved

Difficulty

Ultra-Flat

Quality Score

Runner Favorite86
Methodology
Heritage20/20

26 years running

Size12/15

~240 finishers a year

Momentum5/5

growing or steady

Loyalty20/20

37% returning runners

Course & details10/15

USATF certified · 5 timing sources

National draw6/10

runners from 9 states

Front-pack speed5/5

winner 1:09:27

Weather8/10

typical high 54°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

36°

Afternoon (High)

55°

Ideal racing weather — cool and comfortable

0.2"

Precipitation

14 mph

Wind

64%

Humidity

Frequently asked

When is the 2027 Sam Costa Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon?

The 2027 Sam Costa Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon is held on Saturday, March 20, 2027.

Where does the 2027 Sam Costa Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon take place?

It takes place in Carmel, Indiana.

What distances does the 2027 Sam Costa Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles).

Is the 2027 Sam Costa Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon course flat and good for a PR?

The 2027 Sam Costa Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon is a ultra-flat, loop course course.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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