More than 21,000 runners are set to take over downtown Richmond streets Saturday for the 49th Allianz Richmond Marathon, and for only the second time in the event's history, all three races have sold out. The marathon, the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon and the Capital One Richmond 8K are completely full, and organizers are debuting a new finish line along the riverfront to handle the crowd.
A Sellout Two Years Running
The race weekend sold out across all three distances for the second consecutive year and only the second time ever, according to Sports Backers. The full marathon filled especially fast, with all 7,200 spots claimed by June, per Sports Backers as reported by Axios Richmond. Sports Backers says the weekend was expected to draw 21,000 runners and walkers to the streets of downtown Richmond on Saturday.
The Richmond Times-Dispatch notes the marathon returns for its 49th year, bringing thousands of runners back to a course known for its neighborhood spirit and signature downhill finish. Times-Dispatch features reporter Chelsea Jackson writes that the event features live music, enthusiastic volunteers and entertainment stationed along the route.
New Starting Points, New Finish Line
For 2026, all three races have new starting locations. The marathon is scheduled to start between Third and Fourth streets on Broad Street, Sports Backers says — though the organizer's own course information page separately describes the marathon start as Fourth and Broad Street, a discrepancy the dossier does not resolve. Either way, runners will finish in a new spot this year: Fifth and Byrd streets, instead of the previous location near Tredegar.
The finish line has moved to a new location. The marathon course passes along and across the James River through some of the city's scenic and historic sections. The course stays open for seven hours, which the organizer says requires runners to hold roughly a 16:02-per-mile pace.
Road Closures
The marathon will close several roads and affect downtown traffic.
Community Spirit Challenge Returns
Community groups can again take part in the Community Spirit Challenge along the course, with cash and reimbursement incentives for crowd enthusiasm. The challenge requires advance registration with Sports Backers and a group of at least eight people to qualify, according to the official event page. Organizers say they will award up to $500 for the most spirited groups and will cover up to $250 of eligible party supplies.
This year's finish is at Fifth and Byrd streets, with thousands expected to cross the line Saturday.
