Since its debut in the early 2010s, the Hell of a Half Marathon has embraced its name with pride—bringing runners to Exeter for a high-heat, hill-heavy test of grit. Over the years, it’s become a staple of the Run the Valley Half Marathon Series, offering both individual and 2-person relay options.
The course starts in Memorial Park and winds through downtown before stretching south on Myers Avenue. Runners face two significant climbs, each lasting about a mile, on Rocky Hill and Rocky Hill Drive—with steep descents in between—and ultimately return to the finish. The entire route is fully paved, but the relentless summer heat (often in the 80–90°F range) adds to the challenge .
Support on the course is solid: 11 aid stations stocked with chilled water, electrolyte drinks, GU gels, and even ice-soaked sponges to cool runners down. Reviewers rave about this support:
“Course support is fantastic… volunteers with sponges full of cool water to rinse you down”
After crossing the line, participants can enjoy a free breakfast burrito, beer garden, live music, post-race massage, and festive atmosphere. It also benefits the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation, raising funds for burn survivors and helping build community impact.
The race is known for its no-nonsense encouragement, attracting those chasing big challenge and bragging rights more than PRs.
