HalfRuns
The American Bluegrass Classic

The American Bluegrass Classic

Race Date

Oct 17, 2026

Location

PADUCAH, KY

The Experience

Marathon - Half Marathon - 4 Person Marathon Relay Experience one of Kentucky’s fastest and most runner-friendly courses at the American Bluegrass Classic. Set against the backdrop of the Ohio River and the energy of the Riverfront Fall Festival weekend (Octoberfest/Cars and Guitars), this race combines Kentucky charm with big atmosphere.  Whether you’re chasing a PR or your first finish line, our smooth, spectator-friendly looped course keeps you engaged from start to finish. The American Bluegrass Classic punches above it's weight to offer the perfect race for Boston Qualifiers and 50 Staters, while giving runners a chance to celebrate in the UNESCO Creative City of Paducah. This Race is BUILT FOR SPEED! Flat, PR friendly course Loop design = constant energy and crowd support! Ideal for first timers AND serious racers Marathon runners will run 4 loops, half-marathoners will run 2 loops, and relay runners will run 1 loop (which is slightly longer than a 10K). The race will start and finish in our Historic Downtown. There's something for everyone in the family on Oktoberfest weekend. Great music, food, beverages and even activities for the kiddos! In addition to Oktoberfest, Downtown Paducah is also hosting "Cars and Guitars" after the race. With more great live music and premium collection cars to line the streets of downtown. This is everything a race weekend should be!

Logistics

Race Day

Saturday, October 17, 2026

Start Time

7:00 AM

Giveaway

T-Shirt

Start Location

215 Jefferson St., PADUCAH, KY, 42001-1863

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

road

Difficulty

Rolling Hills

Quality Score

Methodology
Heritage0/20

first year

Size0/15

no finisher counts yet

Momentum3/5

small race — neutral

Loyalty0/20

needs a few years of results

Course & details0/15

limited extras

National draw0/10

no finisher data yet

Front-pack speed0/5

no winner time yet

Weather5/10

typical high 68°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

50°

Afternoon (High)

68°

Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish

0.1"

Precipitation

10 mph

Wind

66%

Humidity

Explore More Journeys

Can't make it to PADUCAH? Discover other experiences that match your running style.

Search All Races