Out and About

Rock 'n' Roll Raleigh drops full marathon, keeps half

Organizers announced Wednesday that next year's race weekend will not include full marathon.

Posted Updated

By
Kathy Hanrahan
RALEIGH, N.C. — The annual Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Series will continue in downtown Raleigh next year, just without the actual "marathon."

Organizers announced Wednesday that next year's race weekend will not include a full marathon. For its fifth year in Raleigh, the race will be focusing on the half-marathon and 5K races, which will be held April 7-8. Registration is now open for both races.

"The excitement and energy in the running community continues to shift to shorter distances and that’s where we will focus our energy," Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Vice President of Events Alex Bennett said. "We believe our decision to elevate the half marathon as our main event is a positive one and will provide a better experience for both participants and the community, while bringing runners from around the world to visit Raleigh.”

Scott Dupree, executive director of the Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance, stressed that the decision would allow more time and resources to go into the programming and entertainment aspects of the event.

The Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Series, which has events across the globe, features a different mix of races in each city. Currently, 14 of its host cities have full marathons scheduled this year or next. In addition to half-marathons and 5Ks, the series also hosts 10Ks.

A special pre-sale has begun for the first 1,000 runners for the half marathon and 5K. Half marathon registrations will be available for $50 and 5K registrations for $30 for a limited time.

 Credits 

Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.