AEC Touchstone Energy Run United Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and Kids' Fun Run

Schedule:

• Check-in begins at 7:00 a.m.
• Half Marathon runs at 7:30 a.m.
• 10K at 7:30 a.m., 5K at 7:45 a.m.
• One-Mile Kids Fun Run at 9:30 a.m.
• Race End Time: 10:30 a.m. EST.

• The first 800 runners who register before March 30th will receive a Dri-Fit runner's shirt.
• Please be advised Runners shirts are gender-specific. Female shirts are V-neck.
• We recommend choosing the next size up in shirts.
• The first 400 finishers in each race category will receive a medal regardless of their time.

We are excited to recognize the outstanding achievements of all our participants! Each participant is eligible for a single award for their highest placement. Please note that double dipping (winning multiple awards) is not permitted.

 

HALF MARATHON

1ST PLACE PRIZE​   |   $500 Overall Male​   |   $500 Overall Female​ ​

2ND PLACE PRIZE​   |   $300 Overall Male   |   $300 Overall Female​ ​

3RD PLACE PRIZE​   |   $200 Overall Male​   |   $200 Overall Female​ ​

 

10K

1ST PLACE PRIZE​   |   $100 Overall Male​   |   $100 Overall Female​ ​
2ND PLACE PRIZE​  |   Gift Certificate Overall Male | Gift Certificate Overall Female​
3RD PLACE PRIZE  |   Gift Certificate Overall Male | Gift Certificate Overall Female​

 

5K
1ST PLACE PRIZE​   |   $50 Overall Male​   |   $50 Overall Female​     
2ND PLACE PRIZE​  |   Gift Certificate Overall Male | Gift Certificate Overall Female​
3RD PLACE PRIZE  |   Gift Certificate Overall Male | Gift Certificate Overall Female​

 

Age Group Awards: 

Carolina Connect Slider Medal
A state-of-the-art Carolina Connect Slider Medal will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers in each age group for all races:

15 & under
16-19
20-24
25-29
30-34
35-39
40-44
45-49
50-54
55-59
60-64
65-69
70-74
75-79
80-84
85 & over

Good luck to all participants! We can’t wait to see who will claim victory!

To see the course maps for this year's race, click the distance you want to view below:

KIDS RUN     5K MAP     10K MAP     HALF MARATHON

 

For an intereactive look at the course maps on MapMyRun, please use the following links:

Kids Fun Run: https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6249933895/

5K: https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6249942265/

10K: https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6249947497

Half Marathon: https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6249957124/

Who is the charity beneficiary?

• United Way of Aiken County's mission is to ensure equal opportunity for success within our community. With the support of our partners and volunteers, we focus on financial stability, education, and health—key pillars for building a thriving community. We also provide support through programs aimed at offering Assistance in Crisis during unexpected hardships.

Is there food after the event?

• Save your appetites for the RUN UNITED food truck village featuring Chick-fil-A of Aiken County, Whipped Creamery, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Hometown Grounds Coffee. The food truck village will be available from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on race day in the post-race party area.

Health & Fitness Village:

1. Fleet Feet Sports of Augusta
2. Max Fitness
3. Tri-Augusta
4. Fire 5K
5. Rural Health Services
6. Gold Cross
7. Stretch Zone

What are your COVID Safety measures?

• Post-race athlete food will be single-served grab-and-go or pre-packaged. • Hand sanitizing stations will be available at all areas of the EXPO (if applicable), start line chute, info table, finish line, and post-race athlete food.

Is prize money awarded to the winners?

• Yes! RUN UNITED will have a cash prize purse of up to $4200 for the top finishers: • Half Marathon: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place overall winners (Male & Female); and 1st place winners for each age group will receive cash rewards. • 5K and 10K: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place overall winners (Male & Female); and 1st place winners for each age group will receive rewards including gift certificates, plaques, and trophies.  AWARDS

What happens if a train comes through while I'm on the course?

• Though we work hard to prevent trains from interfering with the course, it's still possible. Police officers will be stationed at every railroad crossing to ensure runner safety. According to USATF Rule 245, runners' times start and end regardless of course obstacles.

Will age group awards be presented?

• Overall male and female finishers in the half marathon, 10K, and 5K events will receive awards. Age group winners include the top three male and female finishers in various categories.

Is there a wheelchair division?

• Unfortunately, there will not be a wheelchair division for RUN UNITED.

Will I receive a medal for finishing the race?

• The first 400 participants from each race category (half marathon, 10k, and 5k) to cross the finish line will receive a medallion. Additionally, winners in various categories will receive rewards.

Is water available on the course?

• Yes, water and/or Gatorade stations are located approximately every two miles along the course.

Are there port-a-lets along the course?

• Portable toilets will be located throughout the course in addition to the start/finish line downtown Aiken in the Festival Area.

Is there a course time limit?

• RUN UNITED has a three-hour time limit. Runners who have not completed the race within this time frame will be asked to move to the sidewalk.

Is the course closed to traffic?

• Please note that the racecourses will not be closed to vehicle traffic. Volunteers and police officers will monitor the course for safety.

What if I need to quit partway through the race?

• Move to the right and look for a course volunteer to assist you. A "sag wagon" will sweep the course following the close of the half marathon to pick up any non-finishers.

Are there any items not allowed on the course?

• For safety reasons, wheeled conveyances and the use of headphones and personal music devices are not allowed. 

How can I get my race number and shirt if I can't make it to packet pick-up?

• Pre-Race Packet Pick-Up/Registration will be available on Friday, April 25 from 3 to 7 PM at Aiken Center for the Arts, 122 Laurens St SW, Aiken, SC 29801. Race day Packet Pick-up will only be available at the University of Aiken downtown location building at 141 Newberry St SW from 6 to 7 AM under approved extreme circumstances for out of town runners.

Can I pick up my number on the morning of the race?

• Pre-Race Day Packet Pick-up will only be available at the Aiken Center for the Arts. Race day Packet Pick-up will only be available under approved extreme circumstances for out-of-town guests at the University of Aiken downtown location building. However, your first choice of shirt size may no longer be available.

I registered for the event, but I'm unable to run. Can I get a refund?

We do not offer refunds, but athletes can defer their registration to next year's race.

Will the race be timed?

Timing with live results will be provided, with timing chips attached to race bibs

How can I find out my results from the race?

Unofficial results will be published online after the event here: https://runsignup.com/rununited/results

Where can I find my photos from the race?

Photographs will be available for download on the race day here:  https://runsignup.com/rununited/photos

Will there be a finish line party after the race?

Yes, please join us at the finish line area for music, food, and awards.

How to Add a Graphic Over Your Photo for Social Media

Method 1: Using Instagram Stories or Facebook Stories

1. Open the App – Launch Instagram or Facebook and go to “Create a Story.”
2. Select Your Photo – Choose a race day photo from your gallery.
3. Add a Graphic – Tap on the “Stickers” icon (looks like a smiling face in a square), then select "photo" and select the social media frame.
4. Adjust & Position – Drag the graphic to place it where you want. Pinch to resize or rotate it.
5. Post Your Story – Once satisfied, tap “Share” to publish your story.

Method 2: Using a Mobile App (Canva, PicsArt, or Adobe Express)

1. Download & Open the App – Install a graphic design app like Canva, PicsArt, or Adobe Express on your phone.
2. Upload Your Photo – Tap “Create a Design” or “Start New Project,” then select and upload the photo you want to edit.
3. Add Your Graphic –Tap “Upload” and insert the frame onto your photo.
4. Adjust the Graphic – Resize, reposition, or change transparency using the app’s editing tools.
5. Save & Download – Once satisfied, tap the download button to save your edited image to your device.
6. Upload to Social Media – Open your social media app, select the edited image, and post it as usual.

     

 

 DOWNLOAD SOCIAL MEDIA SQUARE FRAME 

 

 DOWNLOAD SOCIAL MEDIA STORIES FRAME

All vendor information can be downloaded for print and easier viewing in PDF format here: DOWNLOAD

SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER 

 

The success of the RUN UNITED event relies on the dedication and enthusiasm of over 300 volunteers. Join us in ensuring that the event takes off smoothly! RUN UNITED volunteers play a crucial role in various tasks such as race set-up, providing support during race weekend, and assisting with post-race
clean-up. We invite both individuals and groups to participate and contribute to the success of the event.

Volunteer Opportunities:

• Hydration & Spirit Station support on race day
• Post-race clean-up

What to Expect: 

Most volunteer activities will take place outdoors on race day. We recommend dressing in layers with comfortable shoes. The event will proceed rain or shine, so please come prepared for changing weather conditions.

Volunteer Perks:

All volunteers will receive:

• Complimentary RUN UNITED Crew T-shirt
• Volunteer bag
• Community service hours certificate (as needed)
• Exclusive discounts and coupons from local businesses

Groups:

If you have a group of 10 or more interested in volunteering, especially Non-Profits, Sports Teams, Service Clubs, or Church Groups, please email in to rununited@aikenco-op.org. Hydration & Spirit Station Groups: Groups managing hydration stations must provide a minimum of 10 volunteers. Group members must be 7th grade or above, with at least two adults over the age of 21 present. Groups selected to manage a water station will receive:

• Exclusive naming rights to the assigned water station
• Opportunity to decorate the assigned water station
• Opportunity to distribute materials during the Event Expo / Packet Pick-Up
• Inclusion of a "swag" item in participant race bags

Age Limits:

Volunteer with your family! Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian adult volunteer.

List of Hydration and Spirit Stations:

Hydration & Spirit Stations #1 (Kershaw/Barnwell) - 7:00 AM-11:00 AM (10 Volunteers Needed):
Volunteers will work together at hydration stations along the course to provide water and refreshments to athletes.

Hydration & Spirit Stations #2 (Marion & Staube) - 7:00 AM-11:00 AM (10 Volunteers Needed):
Volunteers will work together at hydration stations along the course to provide water and refreshments to athletes.

Hydration & Spirit Stations #3 (Colleton & Orangeburg) - 7:00 AM-11:00 AM (10 Volunteers Needed):
Volunteers will work together at hydration stations along the course to provide water and refreshments to athletes.

Hydration & Spirit Stations #4 (Grace & Sumter) - 7:00 AM-11:00 AM (10 Volunteers Needed):
Volunteers will work together at hydration stations along the course to provide water and refreshments to athletes.

Hydration & Spirit Stations #5 (Knox & Magnolia) - 7:00 AM-11:00 AM (10 Volunteers Needed):
Volunteers will work together at hydration stations along the course to provide water and refreshments to athletes.

Hydration & Spirit Stations #6 (Boardman & Dogwood) - 7:00 AM-11:00 AM (10 Volunteers Needed):
Volunteers will work together at hydration stations along the course to provide water and refreshments to athletes.

Hydration & Spirit Stations #7 (Henry St) - 7:00 AM-11:00 AM (10 Volunteers Needed):
Volunteers will work together at hydration stations along the course to provide water and refreshments to athletes.

Hydration & Spirit Stations #8 (Boardman & Dunbarton Cir)- 7:00 AM-11:00 AM (10 Volunteers Needed):
Volunteers will work together at hydration stations along the course to provide water and refreshments to athletes.

Hydration & Spirit Stations #9 (Mead Ave/Track Kitchen) - 7:00 AM-11:00 AM (10 Volunteers Needed):
Volunteers will work together at hydration stations along the course to provide water and refreshments to athletes.

Hydration & Spirit Stations #10 (Colleton & Union) - 7:00 AM-11:00 AM (10 Volunteers Needed):
Volunteers will work together at hydration stations along the course to provide water and refreshments to athletes.

Hydration & Spirit Stations #11 (Newberry St /Near Island) - 7:00 AM-11:00 AM (10 Volunteers Needed):
Volunteers will work together at hydration stations along the course to provide water and refreshments to athletes.

Hydration & Spirit Stations #12 (Library/Kids Run) - 7:00 AM-11:00 AM (10 Volunteers Needed):
Volunteers will work together at hydration stations along the course to provide water and refreshments to athletes.

 

 READY TO VOLUNTEER!

 

Pre-Race Packet Pick-Up/Registration will be available on Friday, April 24th at Aiken Center for the Arts (Directions) from 3:00pm-7:00pm

Race day packet pick-up will ONLY be available under approved extreme circumstances for out of town guests at the University of Aiken downtown location building. However, your first choice of shirts size may no longer be available.

Looking for accommodations while your in town for Run United?

 

       

As a sponsor of RUN UNITED, we would like to cordially invite you to support Aiken Electric Cooperative's Touchstone Energy's 14th Annual RUN UNITED event for the year 2026. With this event's continuous growth, we know we could not do it without our faithful sponsors. We are so grateful for your previous support and your consideration of supporting the United Way of Aiken County through sponsorship for RUN UNITED 2026, you will have the opportunity to reach hundreds of potential clients in one location. You will have the option to sponsor at a level where you can showcase your business's logo on the runners' shirts and are guaranteed publicity at the venue. Being a sponsor for RUN UNITED will also provide opportunities for your personnel to participate with complimentary race entries. All proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the United Way of Aiken County. The race festivities will kick off at 6:30 a.m. on Newberry Street in historic downtown Aiken Saturday, April 25, 2026.

• Sponsorship Packet
• Race Application

Send us an email at rununited@aikenco-op.org to discuss sponsorship opportunities.

We appreciate your consideration and look forward to hearing from you!

Looking for a great way to promote your business and support a meaningful cause? RUN UNITED is happening on April 25, 2026, and our partner, The Aiken Standard, is offering an exclusive opportunity for businesses! Register six or more employees to participate, and your company will receive a FREE half-page ad in The Aiken Standard.

How to claim your ad:

1. Register your team for RUN UNITED! Sign up is open now! During the sign up process, the first person from the team will have the opportunity to create the Company team on the Group/Team page. You will need to click the drop down button on Group/Team Type and select "Company".  Once you name the group, then set the password and share it with your coworkers. Note that you are also able to register all six runners on one transaction!

2. Email your registration confirmation to rununited@aikenco-op.org for redemption instructions.

Don’t miss this chance to invest in your community and gain valuable exposure for your business. Sign up today!

The RUN UNITED Ambassador Program

At RUN UNITED, we aim to ignite the human spirit through movement. If you’re passionate about community, inspiring others, and embracing the power of running, training, and sport, then we invite you to apply today! Applications close March 1, 2026.

 

About the Program

The RUN UNITED Ambassador Program is designed for individuals who motivate, uplift, and bring people together through movement. Our ambassadors are committed to promoting an inclusive, active lifestyle—whether through running, training, or sport. As part of this community, you’ll help spread the RUN UNITED mission and inspire others to get involved.

 

What to Expect

As a RUN UNITED Ambassador, you’ll receive:

✅ Special access to RUN UNITED events and experiences.

✅ Early access to our latest gear and product launches.

✅ Exclusive updates on RUN UNITED news to share with your community.

 

Your Role as a RUN UNITED Ambassador

Your mission? To authentically inspire your community through RUN UNITED.

 

As a leader, you will:

🏃 Champion RUN UNITED by wearing our gear and sharing your passion for movement.

🎉 Host RUN UNITED events and introduce the brand to your training groups and networks.

📢 Help promote RUN UNITED through social media, photos, videos, and at other races.

💡 Demo our products, attend expos, and advocate for runner sign-ups.

 

 This is an opportunity to engage, inspire, and build the RUN UNITED community—whether you're a dedicated runner, an outdoor explorer, or simply someone who loves staying active.

 

Interested? Apply today and be part of something bigger!

Apply to be an Ambassador

 

SWAG – The Best Part of Any Race! 

Let’s be honest—we all know one of the best parts of race day is the swag (Stuff We All Get)! At RUN UNITED, we make sure you walk away with awesome gear to commemorate the experience for years to come. 

Here’s what you’ll receive when you register: 

• Race Shirt – Each year, we design a unique, custom race shirt, and this year’s features a bold red, white, and blue design highlighting one of Aiken’s most iconic sites—South Boundary, which is part of the racecourse.
• Finisher Medal – This year’s medal is our most unique design yet. Featuring a swinging race logo and a gold CarolinaConnect necklace add-on, this red, white, and blue medal perfectly captures the excitement and unity of the race. Plus, the design showcases a group of runners making their trek down South Boundary, making it a standout keepsake for all finishers.
• Cooling Towel – Complete your race-day look with this matching red, white, and blue cooling towel, perfect for keeping you cool after crossing the finish line. 

All registered runners receive these items, regardless of finish time, while supplies last. Sign up early to guarantee yours. 

Kids Fun Run (1 Mile): T-Shirt

5K Run/Walk: T-Shirt

10K Run: T-Shirt

Half Marathon: T-Shirt

Ambassador Application: T-Shirt