Coast Guard Marathon

The Official Race of the United States Coast Guard

Lace up for the Coast Guard Marathon—part race, part celebration, all heart!

Join us in April 10-12, 2026 in Elizabeth City, North Carolina — the Officially Designated Coast Guard City — for a high-spirited race weekend that honors service, strength, and community. Founded in 2021 with a virtual debut and launched in person in 2022, the Coast Guard Marathon has quickly become a rising star among the Prestigious Military Races.

As you register, consider taking on the Armed Forces Series Challenge — a unique multi-race experience that celebrates each branch of the U.S. military. Runners who complete signature races for the Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard will earn a special challenge medal in addition to individual race finisher medals. It’s a meaningful way to honor our nation’s heroes, collect exclusive bling, and become part of a powerful, patriotic tradition.

For more information: AFSC - Coast Guard Marathon

Run a fast, flat Boston Qualifier course that winds through scenic waterfront streets, historic neighborhoods, and the unforgettable thrill of racing down the runway at U.S. Coast Guard Base Elizabeth City.

IMPORTANT: Registration Deadline

IMPORTANT: The last day to register for the in-person Half Marathon, Full Marathon, and Semper Paratus Challenge is March 22, 2026, due to mandatory background checks for base runway access.

In-Person & Virtual Options

• In-Person Weekend: April 10–12, 2026 – Join us in Elizabeth City for the full race experience, live events, and community celebration.
• Virtual Race Window: April 1–30, 2026 – Run your race from anywhere in the world and be part of the Coast Guard Marathon community on your schedule.

Race Weekend: Full Speed Ahead

Choose your distance:

• Marathon
• Half Marathon
• 5K
• 1K Kids’ Run

Push your limits with the Semper Paratus Challenge Series—complete the 5K plus the Half or Full Marathon in one weekend and earn an official challenge coin, a proud symbol of Coast Guard grit and endurance. Junior runners can take on the Junior Challenge (5K + 1K) and earn their own coin for courage and commitment.

More Than a Race—It’s a Full Weekend Adventure

• Two-Day Expo: Gear up and meet the crew
• Pasta Luncheon: Fuel up before the big run
• Family Festival (Saturday): Activities and fun for all ages
• Finish Line Festival (Sunday): Celebrate your victory with music, food, and revelry

Whether you're active duty, a veteran, a proud Coast Guard supporter, or a first-time runner, the Coast Guard Marathon invites you to run with purpose, pride, and community—from the base, the streets, or wherever you call home. All hands on deck—let’s make it a weekend to remember. Semper Paratus—Always Ready!

Even More Reasons to Run

• Military Discount: As a "thank you" for your service, we are offering a 10% off military discount with the code "CGM2026" at checkout. This discount is for past and present active-duty members of all branches of the United States Armed Forces.
• Referral Program: The more the merrier! SAVE by inviting friends to run the event with you either in-person OR virtually.
• Referral Benefits: Refer 5 friends, get $10 off your registration: refer 10 friends, get $20 off your registration: refer 15 friends, your registration is FREE. Referral registrations MUST be made using your unique referral link provided at checkout.
• Stay Updated: Check out our website www.coastguardmarathon.com and social media for updates!