2027 Just A Short Run
Just A Short Run: a flat, community-focused half marathon in a Pittsburgh park, honoring a legacy.
Expected Race Date
~Mar 2027
Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.
Location
Allison Park, PA
Quick facts
- Date
- around March 2027 (expected)
- Location
- Allison Park, Pennsylvania
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
The Experience
Just A Short Run, now in its 25th edition, gathers around 157 runners each March in Allison Park's North Park. Founded in 2001 to honor Sean T. Smith, the race has raised tens of thousands for leukemia charities and recently partnered with Cancer Bridges. It draws participants from roughly seven states, with about one in five returning year after year.
The half-marathon course is a flat loop through North Park, with a generous four-hour time limit that welcomes first-timers. The event is organized by race founder Kevin Smith, along with local timing crews and a small army of youth-group volunteers, giving it a warm, community-driven atmosphere. March weather averages 34–54°F, making it a crisp but pleasant early-season test.
Every runner receives a pair of custom Just A Short Run shorts—a standout piece of swag that adds to the race’s low-key, hidden-gem appeal. Whether you’re aiming for a spring marathon tune-up or simply want to run for a cause, this race offers an intimate, meaningful experience.
Race-provided description
Founded in 2001 to honor Sean T. Smith, who lost his battle with leukemia in 1995, Just A Short Run has helped raise tens of thousands of dollars to benefit local charities working to eradicate leukemia and blood-borne cancers. In 2025, we recommitted to Sean's legacy, launching a partnership with Cancer Bridges to help people diagnosed with cancer and their families and to support networks that help them navigate their cancer journey. In 2026, we are proud to continue this partnership! Race founder, Kevin Smith (brother of Sean), along with the GCXC Race Timing Team, running friends and family from the former Elite Runners & Walkers run shop, along with a small army of volunteers from local youth groups, will help transform North Park into the course(s) for Just A Short Run. Back in its prime spot on the fourth Saturday in March, Just A Short Run is the perfect event to test your fitness or as your goal race. With distances of 5K, 8.1 Miles, 1/2 Marathon & 30K, this event will be your perfe…
Logistics
Race Day
around March 2027 (expected)
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
10301 Pearce Mill Rd, Allison Park, PA, 15101
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Park
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
Standout7825 years running
~157 finishers a year
growing or steady
19% returning runners
6 timing sources
runners from 7 states
winner 0:29:05
typical high 56°F
Frequently asked
When is the 2027 Just A Short Run?
The 2027 Just A Short Run hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around March 2027 (expected).
Where does the 2027 Just A Short Run take place?
It takes place in Allison Park, Pennsylvania.
What distances does the 2027 Just A Short Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2027 Just A Short Run course flat and good for a PR?
The 2027 Just A Short Run is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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