In 89 days · Sun, Oct 4, 2026
Don't let race day sneak up
One email during race week. That's it.
When
Sunday, October 4th, 2026
Where
Sandy Hook - Gateway National Recreation Area - Area E, Highlands NJ
Distances
Half
About this race
JERSEY SHORE HALF MARATHON AND 2 MILE RUN
Event Date and Time
- Date: Sunday, October 4, 2026
- Start Time: 8:00 A.M.
Registration Information
- Status: Registration for this year's in-person race is now FULL!
- Virtual Race Option: The Virtual Race Option IS available.
Location
- Venue: Sandy Hook - Gateway National Recreation Area
- History: The Jersey Shore Half Marathon, hosted by the Shore Athletic Club, is one of the oldest distance events in New Jersey, dating back to 1972.
- Course Certification: This USATF-certified course is flat and fast with a 2-loop format.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy the stunning scenery of Sandy Hook after the race!
Parking Information
- Free Parking: Available within the park in LOT D, close to the start/finish area.
- Spectator Parking: Located in LOT C.
- Transportation: No shuttle needed: arrive early and carpool if possible.
- Pathway Rules: Use the boardwalk or blacktop multi-use path to get to/from Lot D and the start/finish area.
Half Marathon Registration Fees
- Early Bird: $80 for the first 100 entrants from February 18-27, 2026.
- Standard Fees: $80 by February 27, $95 by June 30, $110 by October 3, $125 on race day.
- Space Limit: This year's race is limited to 800 participants.
- Note: Registration may fill up early, as seen in past years.
2 Mile Run Registration Details
- Early Registration: $25 by March 31, 2026.
- Standard Fees: $30 by October 3, $35 on Event Day.
- Start Time: The 2 Mile Race will begin 5 minutes after the half marathon start.
- Course: Flat and fast out and back course.
Registration + Personalized Training Plan
- Fees: $160 by February 27, 2026: $175 by June 30: $190 by October 4.
Virtual Race Option Details
- Cost: $40 per person.
- Results Submission: Submit your results by 10/4.
- Giveaways: Race shirt and other items will be mailed after the event.
Pre-Race Bib/Shirt Pick-Up
- Date: Saturday, October 3, 2026.
- Time: 11:15 AM to 2:00 PM.
- Location: The Outpost Running and Walking Co. - 32 Church Street, Little Silver.
- Encouragement: Participants are strongly encouraged to pick up their bibs on Saturday.
Event Day Schedule
- Event Time: October 4, 2026 from 6:30 AM to 11:30 PM.
- Pre-registration: Bib and shirt pick-up at the Lifesaving Station.
- Start Times: Half Marathon at 8:00 AM: 2 Mile at 8:05 AM.
- Awards Ceremony: At 10:45 AM at the Lifesaving Station.
Awards
- Cash Prizes: Minimum of $225, $175, and $150 for the Top 3 Overall Male and Female Finishers.
- Age Group Awards: Custom awards for the Top 3 finishers in each 5-year age group.
- Giveaways: All runners will receive a long-sleeve event tee and other sponsor giveaways.
- Finisher Medals: Custom Jersey Shore Half Marathon 2026 finisher medal for all 13.1 finishers.
Cool New Highlights in 2026
- Pacers: Available for paces of 1:30, 1:45, 2:00, 2:15, and 2:30.
- Local Discounts: Special discounts with local merchants on race weekend.
- Post-Race Party: At Off The Hook in Highlands starting at noon.
- Lodging Partner: Sonesta Select of Eatontown with special rates for race participants.
Charity Partner
- Beneficiary: Partnering with the Sandy Hook Foundation, funding conservation and educational programs.
- Support: Participants can make tax-deductible donations during registration.
Corporate Partnerships and Entertainment
- Merchants: Discounts available throughout the weekend from local businesses.
- Post-Race Party: Enjoy one free domestic draft beer or soda with your race bib.
Safety Notes
- Headphones: NO HEADPHONES on the course for safety.
- Strollers and Pets: Not allowed at the race for everyone's safety.
- Time Limit: Strict 3-hour time limit on the Half Marathon course.
Course Records
- 2022 Champions: Evan Bush (1:10:28) and Jessica Francis (1:27:35).
- 2023 Champions: Jack Shea (1:09:45) and Mackenzie Greenfield (1:22:06).
- 2024 Champions: Michael Bond (1:12:40) and Rachel Rodriguez (1:17:48).
- 2025 Champions: Troy Hill (1:11:20) and Abigail Silva (1:29:20).
Follow Us
- Social Media: @theshoreac on Instagram and X, The Shore Athletic Club on Facebook and LinkedIn.
- Website: Updates and photos available at www.shoreac.org
More Information
Course map
Train with a club
Run clubs near Highlands to train with before race day.
See all run clubs near Highlands →
Suggested Races
Organize this race?
Claim it free to manage your listing — and get it featured for free, while spots last.