
In 14 days · Sat, Oct 17, 2026
Don't let race day sneak up
One email during race week. That's it.
When
Saturday, October 17th, 2026
Where
4940 Canal Road NW, Washington DC
Distances
Marathon · Half
Typical weather
50–68°F · low rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 0 of the last 10 years
2025
43–64°F
dry
2024
40–59°F
dry
2023
51–62°F
dry
2022
52–68°F
dry
2021
51–63°F
dry
2020
42–60°F
dry
2019
50–56°F
dry
2018
49–66°F
dry
2017
44–61°F
dry
2016
57–80°F
dry
Best months to race in Washington DC →
Gear up
Going long? The fueling guide — gels, chews, and how to carry them →
About this race
Race Overview
- Date: October 17, 2026
- Location: 4940 Canal Road NW, Washington, DC
- Event: 23½th annual Potomac River Run Marathon & Half
- Memory: In memory of Dean Shulman and Wendy Martinez
Race Registration
- Registration Link: Register Here
- Referrals: We regret that we can't provide referrals from this race to another, as this is the last marathon we host.
- Contact: If it hurts, call ACE-PT first at 703-205-1233
- Sponsored by: ACE Health Foundation
Event Schedule
- Pasta Dinner: Friday, October 16, at 6:15 PM -- Big Tony's Pizzeria, 3100 Clarendon Boulevard, Arlington VA
- Packet Pickup: Friday, October 16, 12:00 noon to 5:45 PM at Pacers Running Store, 3100 Clarendon Boulevard
- Race Day Packet Pickup: Saturday, October 17, 6:45 AM to 8:45 AM onsite at Fletcher's Cove
Course Details
- Course Type: Flat, scenic with beautiful views of the Potomac River.
- Boston Qualifying: This is a Boston Marathon-qualifying course DC21001RT.
- Elevation: Highest point is 44m above sea level, lowest point is 12m above sea level.
- Canal Towpath: Enjoy a lovely day on the C&O Canal Towpath, with informative displays before and after the race.
Awards and Recognition
- Awards: $250 to 1st, $150 to 2nd, $100 to 3rd overall M/F in the Full Marathon.
- Age Group Awards: SHF awards to 1st, 2nd, 3rd by 10-year age-group M/F in both races.
- Cash Award: $100 cash award to everyone finishing all 3 of SHF's marathons in 2024.
- Grand Prix: This race is the third of Safety And Health Foundation's Grand Prix.
Logistics and Parking
- Directions: Fletcher's Cove is two miles west of Georgetown at 4940 Canal Road NW.
- Parking: Approximately 285 free parking spaces available, please carpool or use our Facebook page to share a ride.
- Drop-off: The best drop-off spot is at the top of the ramp: do not attempt to drive down the ramp.
- Assistance: Event logistics assisted by TeamAfrica.com and DC Capital Striders.
Packet Pickup Information
- What to Bring: Collect your bib number, t-shirt, and goodie bag pre-race.
- Early Pickup: Thursday, October 17, 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM at ACE Physical Therapy.
- Late Pickup: Race-day pickup is on-site from 7:15 AM to 8:45 AM at picnic tables at Fletcher's Cove.
- Note for Others: You can pick up someone else's bib with a signed note or printed email from the participant.
Important Reminders
- Headphones Policy: Please do not wear headphones at the start, midpoint, or finish line.
- Start Times: 8 AM marathon is a Boston qualifier.
Course map
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