City of Champions Half Marathon
Gadsden's club run half starts and finishes at a brewery, pays cash to the podium, and takes a rolling route through northeast Alabama's old mill town.
Every link above goes to the race, its timing provider, or an official registration partner. Last checked July 28, 2026.
Quick facts
- Cash prizes for the top three men and women, unusual for a race this size.
- Rolling road course through Gadsden, starting and finishing at Back Forty Beer Company.
- Open entry with small discounts for members of several Alabama running clubs.
- Benefits the United Way of Etowah County.
2026 City of Champions Half Marathon registration
Registration for the 2026 City of Champions Half Marathon runs through the official registration page at runsignup.com.
About the City of Champions Half Marathon
The Gadsden Runners Club has put this on since 2018 as the club's flagship distance race, with proceeds going to the United Way of Etowah County. Cash prizes for the top three men and women pull in a faster local field than the entry fee suggests, and club membership is not required to enter.
Course
A road loop out of Back Forty Beer Company through the highlights of Gadsden, described by the organizers as moderately challenging. There are real hills rather than a flat river route, so pacing off a PR course elsewhere is a mistake here.
Race-day weather
Late November in northeast Alabama typically starts near 40 degrees and climbs toward the mid 60s. The 7:30 start usually means a cold first mile and a warm second half.
Past City of Champions Half Marathon dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Saturday, November 21, 2026 | Upcoming | — |
City of Champions Half Marathon FAQ
When is the City of Champions Half Marathon?
The 2026 City of Champions Half Marathon is on Saturday, November 21, 2026.
How do I register for the City of Champions Half Marathon?
Register for the City of Champions Half Marathon through the official registration link: marathonscout.com/go/city-of-champions-half-marathon/register. It opens the race registration page at runsignup.com.
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