Tobacco Road Marathon
The Tobacco Road Marathon and Half Marathon offers a fast, flat course with a strong community feel.
Race Date
Mar 14, 2027
Location
Cary, NC
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, March 14, 2027
- Location
- Cary, North Carolina
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 26.2M
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Yes
- Finishers on record
- 32,940
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Tobacco Road Marathon and Half Marathon, first run in 2010 and now in its 17th edition, is a beloved fixture in Cary, North Carolina. Attracting runners from approximately 31 states, this race is known for its commitment to a fast, flat course, making it a prime location for personal bests. The event typically sees around 2049 finishers, with a loyal following where about 23% return each year.
The course is USATF certified and boasts a minimal net drop, ensuring a speedy race day. Runners can expect typical March weather in the low 40s to mid-60s, ideal for performance. The event is organized by SportReach, emphasizing a community-driven atmosphere that welcomes participants seeking a well-supported and efficient race experience.
Race-provided description
2027 Tobacco Road Marathon and Half Marathon | Cary, NC | 03/14/2027 powered by SportReach
Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
NC24006BDS · Tobacco Road Half Marathon
Relatively flat with minimal net elevation change. Loop course — start and finish are close together.
Quality Score
Runner Favorite9417 years running
~2,049 finishers a year
shrinking
23% returning runners
USATF certified · 2 timing sources
runners from 31 states
winner 1:07:53
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
0.2"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
62%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 32,940 finishers actually crossed the line across 17 years.
Most recent
2026
Total finishers
32,940
Median time
2:09:36
Latest turnout
2,049
States
50
Turnout by year
2019–2026
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Tobacco Road Marathon?
The Tobacco Road Marathon is held on Sunday, March 14, 2027.
Where does the Tobacco Road Marathon take place?
It takes place in Cary, North Carolina.
What distances does the Tobacco Road Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 26.2M.
Is the Tobacco Road Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The Tobacco Road Marathon is a ultra-flat, point to point course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.
How many people run the Tobacco Road Marathon?
HalfRuns has finish records for 32,940 runners who have completed the Tobacco Road Marathon.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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