2026 Northwell Health Great South Bay Run

Now in its 41st year, the Northwell Health Great South Bay Run draws a loyal field of roughly 360 runners from about a dozen states—16% of them return year after year. The race starts and finishes at Bay Shore Marina Park, winding through a historic downtown lined with beautiful residential homes before skirting the Brightwaters Lakes, Cascades, and canals. The finish offers unobstructed views across the Great South Bay to Fire Island, a reward that keeps this growing race feeling like a local institution.

The half-marathon, 10K, and 5K courses are all USATF-certified and paced on roads. The terrain is gently rolling, with the lakes and canals providing a constant sense of place. The field is modest but spirited, and the post-race celebration at the marina lets runners soak in the bay breezes. For those seeking a well-organized, scenic half with a hometown feel, this is a hidden gem worth the trip to Long Island's South Shore.