Rocket City Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K & 5K
December 15, 2024
Huntsville
Road
Distances
Marathon, Half-Marathon, 10k, 5k
Starting Time
8:30 AM
Fees
$65 - $105
Perfect For
100-500
Some Hills
Urban
High: 57°
/ Low: 33°
Overview
Rocket City Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K is entering its 47th year, the second year in which it’s been a full two-day event.
What sets this race apart from most is the fact that it’s treated largely as an excursion, or luxury tour if you will, and the only “tour” that takes place entirely on your own two feet! Throughout the journey, whether you’re a full marathon or half marathon participant, you’ll collect several passport stamps to document the adventure.
Huntsville, otherwise known as Rocket City (Hence the course name), is one riddled with historical significance, natural mountainous landscapes, a bustling downtown center, botanical gardens, and more.
As a participant in this unique race, you’ll get the opportunity to journey through the entirety of Rocket City to see it in all of its glory, all the while collecting unique and treasured passport stamps; seven (7) to be exact.
Course Description
Starting in front of the Von Braun Center (VBC) near Huntsville Museum of Art and Big Spring Park, runners participating in the front half of the marathon (i.e. the half marathon) begin with about 215 meters of elevation during the first 5K where they’re immediately welcomed by Huntsville’s most iconic mural; Eggbeater Jesus, otherwise known as Cosmic Christ. Onward proceeding through Blossomwood and past Maple Hill, an infamous local cemetery, runners then find themselves at Five Points, the historic district of Huntsville, before endeavouring through Veterans Park and past the Huntsville Depot Museum.
After touring through beautiful Downtown Huntsville and experiencing popular sites like the courthouse square and the notable antebellum homes, runners enter Clinton Avenue where they’ll ultimately finish at Campus 805. It’s here where the long-awaited food and spirits will be present for your arrival. While the limit for the marathon registration is capped at 800 runners, the half marathon has no limit. However, if you’re considering signing up, know that there is a strict and challenging 3-hour cut-off, running from 7:00 a.m. through to 10:00 a.m. This race is USATF certified and is, in fact, a Boston Qualifier!
