The GBTC Grand Island 1/2 Marathon

32nd Annual Grand Island 1/2 Marathon

Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, at Beaver Island State Park

 

A Buffalo Runner of the Year Race

A Buffalo tradition the Grand Island Half Marathon has been providing runners a quality running experience and giving back to the community since our inaugural race April 15th, 1995.

 

What's Included in This Year's Race

• RaceJoy Live Tracking: Free phone live tracking, progress alerts, and cheer sending for all participants.

• FREE Downloadable Photos: Find your photos easily, arranged by bib number. Share them on social media or even upload your own! Photographers will be at the Start, on the course, and at the Finish line to capture your photo finish moment.

• Commemorative Race Shirt and Medal: Every Half Marathon finisher receives a medal and high-quality shirt to remember your accomplishment.

• First-Time Half Marathoners: Receive a medal with a distinct ribbon acknowledging your achievement and have a dedicated photo opportunity in front of a first-time 1/2 Marathon placard.

• Post-Race Party: Held adjacent to the finish line with awards, food, drinks, and music from 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM.

 

Race Amenities and Logistics

• Chip Timing: Included for all in-person runners.

• Hydration Stations: Six stations along the course with race volunteers handing out water and sports drinks for runners, and runners are also welcome to carry their own bottles.

• Restrooms: Eight portable toilet stations along the course, plus additional facilities in the start/finish area.

 

Race Day Details: Saturday, May 2nd, 2026

• Bib Pickup: 7:30 AM in the main parking lot adjacent to the Start/Finish.

• Start Time: 9:00 AM.

• Location: Beaver Island State Park, Grand Island, NY (between Buffalo and Niagara Falls). The race starts and finishes in the main parking lot.

• The Course: Flat, out-and-back, along the scenic Niagara River. More than 85% of the course is closed to traffic, and there is no time limit to complete the race.

• Race Gear: Medals and other race giveaways will be available at the finish line.

 

Awards and Records

Half Marathon Awards

• Overall male and female winners.

• Overall Masters male and female winners.

• Overall 19 and Under male and female winners.

• Top Three Finishers in each 5-year age division from 19 and under to 80+

Event Records (Entry fee refunded for anyone breaking a record in their division)

Division	Male Record	Year	Female Record	Year
Overall	Joseph Whelan 1:05:55	2023	Christine Cote 1:19:54	1998
Masters	David O'Keeffe 1:09:36	1999	Jenny Keenen 1:21:17	2023