University of Charleston Marathon presented by United Bank

Flat Roads, Fast Times, and Friendly Vibes – Run Charleston!

A fast and flat Boston qualifying course through the City of Charleston, West Virginia will take you 26.2 miles around our state capitol, on the historic streets of the city, across the Kanawha river, and through the University of Charleston campus! The University of Charleston Marathon intends to promote community, encourage health and wellness, and serve as a critical funding source for the University of Charleston Honors College students. We aim to provide a high-quality race experience for runners, volunteers, spectators and the surrounding community.

COURSE MAP

This USATF-Certified course is ideal for personal records or Boston qualifying times. (USATF-WV25002MS)

STAY AND PLAY

The UC Marathon Preferred Hotel is Four Points by Sheraton. Book by Monday, March 16, 2026 for the special UC Marathon rate. 

We are grateful for the generous support of our sponsors.

Title Sponsor

Participant Dinner Sponsor

 

Platinum Sponsors

      

 

 

Preferred Hotel Sponsor

 

Silver Sponsor

Party at the Plaza Sponsor

Awards Sponsor

Bronze Sponsors

   

 

Community Sponsors

 

 

 

University of Charleston Marathon FAQ - Registration Policies

1. No refunds are permitted.

2. Limited time offers are only applicable to new registrants. No price adjustments or refunds will be granted to existing registrants.

3. Participants may switch race distances by logging on to their RunSignup account by 4/6/2026 at 11:59pm.

4. Participants may transfer their registration to someone else by logging on to their RunSignup account. The registrant may gift their registration to another user, and the recipient is able to register for free. Transfers must be completed by 4/6/2026 at 11:59pm.

5. Participants may elect to defer their registration for one year. The participant will not receive a refund for deferred registrations.

6. Deferred registrants will receive a unique coupon code for next year’s race via email. Deferrals must be initiated by 4/6/2026 at 11:59pm.

7. We do not offer race day packet pick-up and race packets cannot be mailed prior to the race.

8. Participants unable to pick up their own race packet may have someone else pick up their packet for them. The person picking up your packet must have a completed copy of the Packet Pickup Authorization Form and copy of your photo ID. A photo of your ID shown on a phone is acceptable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Nutrition – Will there be gel on the course?

The University of Charleston Marathon is BYOG (Bring Your Own Gel). There will be Gatorade available at all the water stations for the marathon and half marathon courses.

Medals – Who gets a medal?

Marathon and Half Marathon finishers will receive a medal!

Weather – What will the weather be like?

Because the race is an early spring race the weather is often hard to predict. Normally the temperature at the start is in the mid 40’s and highs near the mid 60’s in the afternoon.

Accommodations – Where should I stay?

There are several hotel options within walking distance of the start/finish line. The UC Marathon Host Hotel is Four Points by Sheraton with rates from $159.00 - $209.00 per night. Last Day to Book: Monday, March 16, 2026. Book your special rate for the UC Marathon. 

Awards – Are there cash prizes?

Cash Awards will be presented to the top three female and male Marathon finishers, totaling $2,500: 1st Place $800, 2nd Place $300, 3rd Place $150. Age group awards go to the top finisher in each age group, female and male. Overall winners are not eligible for age group awards.

Walking - Is walking allowed?

We love walkers! Our course is officially open for seven hours. Participants who remain on the course longer than the official time do so at their own risk.  

Time Limit - How long is the course open?

The course will remain open for 7 hours. The streets re-open progressively at a 16 minute per mile pace. 

Start - When time should I arrive to the start?

Please allow plenty of time to navigate road closures, park, and make your way to the start line for your pre-race routine. Parking is available in the City of Charleston parking garage located on Summers Street.

Shirts – Will I receive a participant shirt?

Yes! Marathon and Half Marathon participants will receive a full technical shirt and 5K participants will receive a cotton blend T-shirt.

Elevation – Are there hills?

The UC Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K courses are relatively flat. Check out our elevation profile on Strava.

Qualify – Can I qualify for Boston at the UC Marathon?

Yes, the marathon is a USATF certified course and a Boston qualifier.

Strollers and Pets – Can I push a stroller or bring my pet on the course?

Unfortunately, no. While we love little supporters and furry friends, strollers and pets are not permitted on the course.

Tracking – Will there be participant tracking?

Yes! We will offer participant tracking through a downloadable app - RTRT (Real-Time Race Tracking). We will provide QR codes for download at Packet Pickup, or search on your mobile App Store. University of Charleston Marathon will be available soon.

 

CAN’T FIND YOUR QUESTION?

We’re sorry you can’t find the answer to your question in our FAQ. Please send your question to marathon@ucwv.edu and we'll get back to you with an answer shortly.

 

Marathon Weekend Schedule

Packet Pickup – Riggleman Hall Rotunda, UC Campus

Friday, April 10, 2026             5:00pm – 8:00pm

Saturday, April 11, 2026         8:00am – 7:00pm

 

Friday, April 10, 2026

5:00pm-8:00pm              Packet Pickup 

 

Saturday, April 11, 2026

8:00am                            Packet Pickup Opens

9:00am                            5K – University of Charleston Campus 

5:00pm-7:00pm              Pasta Dinner hosted by Spilman Thomas & Battle Law, UC Campus

5:00pm                            Registration Closes

7:00pm                            Packet Pickup Closes

 

Sunday, April 12, 2026

7:00am                            UC Marathon/Half Marathon Start

9:00am                            Party at the Plaza Opens - Sponsored by Vandalia Wealth

11:00am                          Awards, Slack Plaza

2:00pm                            Course Closes

5K: Cotton blend T-Shirt

Half Marathon: Long-sleeve Tech Shirt

Marathon: Long-sleeve Tech Shirt