Hell of a Half Marathon
Heat is the opponent at this August San Joaquin Valley half, where 11 aid stations carry ice and the biggest fields in the Run The Valley series show up.
Every link above goes to the race, its timing provider, or an official registration partner. Last checked July 28, 2026.
Quick facts
- Summer heat race, 11 aid stations stocked with ice.
- Largest field in this batch, recently above 500 half marathon finishers.
- Two person relay option for splitting the distance.
- Entries support the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation.
2026 Hell of a Half Marathon registration
Registration for the 2026 Hell of a Half Marathon runs through the official registration page at runsignup.com.
About the Hell of a Half Marathon
Exeter sits in citrus country at the base of the Sierra foothills, and this race has grown into the largest of the local half marathon series since starting in 2016. Recent editions have topped 500 finishers, which is unusual for a summer race in the valley. Entries benefit the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation.
Course
A 7 a.m. start from North Kaweah Avenue puts runners on quiet roads outside town. Aid is unusually dense at 11 stations carrying ice, water, and electrolyte, which tells you what the organizers expect the conditions to do. A two person relay splits the distance for runners who want the day without the full effort.
Race-day weather
Valley heat is the defining feature. Even a 7 a.m. start can see temperatures climbing through the 80s by the later miles, with strong sun and little shade. Pacing conservatively and using every aid station is standard advice here.
Past Hell of a Half Marathon dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Saturday, August 8, 2026 | Upcoming | — |
Hell of a Half Marathon FAQ
When is the Hell of a Half Marathon?
The 2026 Hell of a Half Marathon is on Saturday, August 8, 2026.
How do I register for the Hell of a Half Marathon?
Register for the Hell of a Half Marathon through the official registration link: marathonscout.com/go/hell-of-a-half-marathon/register. It opens the race registration page at runsignup.com.
Send Marathon Scout an official race update
Send us confirmed dates, registration links, results, live tracking, or course changes. Include the source link so runners can reach the right information.