University of Charleston Marathon
University of Charleston Marathon: a fast, flat BQ course through West Virginia's capital city.
Race Date
Apr 11, 2027
Location
Charleston, WV
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, April 11, 2027
- Location
- Charleston, West Virginia
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The University of Charleston Marathon takes runners through the heart of West Virginia's capital city. The course winds past the state capitol, along historic downtown streets, and across the Kanawha River before looping through the university campus. This is a race that showcases Charleston's character—a mix of government grandeur and small-town friendliness.
It's also a runner's course. Certified by USATF and described as 'fast and flat,' the route is designed for personal records and Boston-qualifying times. The 2026 edition promises cool spring weather, with average temperatures in the 40s to 60s. The half marathon shares the same certified course as the full marathon, offering the same PR-friendly conditions over a more manageable distance.
Runners cross the finish line on campus, greeted by a community that turns out to support the event. Proceeds benefit University of Charleston Honors College students, adding a philanthropic angle to the race. Every participant receives a long-sleeve tech shirt. With its smooth pavement, low elevation gain, and welcoming atmosphere, the University of Charleston Marathon is a hidden gem for runners chasing fast times in a scenic, historic setting.
Race-provided description
Flat Roads, Fast Times, and Friendly Vibes – Run Charleston! COURSE MAP AND ROAD CLOSURES 5K - SATURDAY, APRIL 11th 9AM START (UC Campus, Riverbank) MARATHON/HALF - SUNDAY, APRIL 12th 7AM START (Capitol St. Charleston, WV) A fast and flat Boston qualifying course through the City of Charleston, West Virginia will take you 26.2 miles around our state capitol, on the historic streets of the city, across the Kanawha river, and through the University of Charleston campus! The University of Charleston Marathon intends to promote community, encourage health and wellness, and serve as a critical funding source for the University of Charleston Honors College students. We aim to provide a high-quality race experience for runners, volunteers, spectators and the surrounding community. This USATF- Marathon Certified course is ideal for personal records or Boston qualifying times. (USATF-WV25002MS) STAY AND PLAY The UC Marathon Preferred Hotel is Four Points by Sheraton. Book by Monday, March 16, 2026 for the special UC M…
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, April 11, 2027
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
240 Capitol St, Charleston, WV, 25301
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River, Urban
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
6 timing sources
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 66°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
45°
Afternoon (High)
66°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.1"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
67%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the University of Charleston Marathon?
The University of Charleston Marathon is held on Sunday, April 11, 2027.
Where does the University of Charleston Marathon take place?
It takes place in Charleston, West Virginia.
What distances does the University of Charleston Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the University of Charleston Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The University of Charleston Marathon is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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