2026 Marine Corps Half Marathon presented by FirstLight Home Care & USAA
Marine Corps Half Marathon offers a patriotic, flat course on Camp Lejeune.
Race Date
Sep 19, 2026
Location
Camp Lejeune, NC
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, September 19, 2026
- Location
- Camp Lejeune, North Carolina
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 13.1 Miles
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 10,680
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Marine Corps Half Marathon, first run in 2002 and now in its 20th year, offers a unique running experience on the grounds of Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base. This event typically sees around 2,200 finishers, drawing participants from approximately 38 states, with about 20% of runners returning for subsequent editions.
The course is noted for its flat profile, making it a potential PR course, though mid-September races can bring significant humidity and heat. A poignant "Blue Mile" features photos of fallen heroes, adding a deeply moving, patriotic atmosphere to the event. Spectator support can be sparse on the base itself, but the families and Marines present offer enthusiastic cheers.
Logistics are generally smooth, with efficient packet pickup and race-day organization. Post-race, runners can enjoy good refreshments. While the swag may be modest, the experience of running on the military installation, combined with the commemorative elements, makes it a memorable event for many, especially those with a connection to the base.
Race-provided description
• Must be 14yrs+ to register. • All runners must complete the race within 3.75 hours. • This course is not a USATF certified course. • Only registered runners are allowed on the course. • No pets allowed on the course.
For more information and details about the Marine Corps Half Marathon presented by FirstLight Home Care & USAA, visit our website HERE
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, September 19, 2026
Start Time
7:00 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
Wallace Creek Fitness Center, Camp Lejeune, NC, 28547
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Urban
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
Standout7719 years running
~1,669 finishers a year
growing or steady
20% returning runners
6 timing sources
runners from 38 states
winner 1:16:54
typical high 41°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
0°
Afternoon (High)
0°
Cool conditions — dress in layers, perfect for fast times
0.0"
Precipitation
0 mph
Wind
0%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 10,680 finishers actually crossed the line across 19 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
10,680
Median time
2:10:24
Latest turnout
1,196
States
47
Turnout by year
2015–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Marine Corps Half Marathon presented by FirstLight Home Care & USAA?
The 2026 Marine Corps Half Marathon presented by FirstLight Home Care & USAA is held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM.
Where does the 2026 Marine Corps Half Marathon presented by FirstLight Home Care & USAA take place?
It takes place in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
What distances does the 2026 Marine Corps Half Marathon presented by FirstLight Home Care & USAA offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 13.1 Miles.
Is the 2026 Marine Corps Half Marathon presented by FirstLight Home Care & USAA course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Marine Corps Half Marathon presented by FirstLight Home Care & USAA is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the 2026 Marine Corps Half Marathon presented by FirstLight Home Care & USAA?
HalfRuns has finish records for 10,680 runners who have completed the 2026 Marine Corps Half Marathon presented by FirstLight Home Care & USAA.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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