What to expect, and how to still be part of race weekend at a sold-out “America’s Friendliest Marathon." The 49th annual Allianz Richmond Marathon, known as “America’s Friendliest Marathon,” will take place on Saturday, November 14, 2026, bringing together 21,000 runners and thousands of volunteers and spectators for one of Richmond’s most anticipated fall traditions.
On Saturday, Nov. 14, runners in the Allianz Richmond Marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and Capital One Richmond 8k will cross a new finish line at Byrd and 5th Streets. The new location creates a longer, more spacious finish chute and opens up the CoStar Group Post Race Party, giving runners room to savor the moment they’ve trained for and celebrate with the people who helped get them there.
Today, for the second consecutive year and the second time ever, the Allianz Richmond Marathon race weekend has sold out across all three distances — the marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and the Capital One Richmond 8k. A total of 21,000 runners and walkers will take to the streets in downtown Richmond on Saturday, November 14, for the 49th running of “America’s Friendliest Marathon.
Sports Backers announced a new partnership with Tailwind Nutrition, naming the Durango, Colorado-based endurance fuel company as the official electrolyte partner of the Allianz Richmond Marathon. Beginning with this year’s event on Saturday, November 14, Tailwind will be the electrolyte drink served at aid stations along the course, supporting participants in the marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and the Capital One Richmond 8k.
Supporting local clubs to inspire active lifestyles and strengthen their communities. The Run Club Grant Program is designed to fuel the growth and impact of running and walking groups in the region.
There may be months until race day, but the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon has already set a personal record. Organizers announced today that the event has officially sold out for the third consecutive year, with all 9,000 available entries claimed for the race on Saturday, November 14, as part of the Allianz Richmond Marathon weekend. Last year, the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon sold out in September.
The Allianz Richmond Marathon crossed another major milestone by racing to the finish line months ahead of schedule. America’s Friendliest Marathon is celebrating a third consecutive sellout and will be welcoming 7,200 participants to the marathon start line on Saturday, November 14, as part of the Allianz Richmond Marathon weekend, which additionally features the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon and Capital One Richmond 8k.
Enjoy a recording of a live panel from the Allianz Richmond Marathon Health & Fitness Expo with Game Changers founder Vanessa Peralta-Mitchell and a selection of coaches with the program. They discuss Revolutionizing the Runner Landscape and how coaching is proving beneficial to female runners.
Join us for a special pod that was recorded live at the Health & Fitness Expo for the Allianz Richmond Marathon. Lindsey Hein of I'll Have Another, and Trevor Spencer of Marathon Training Academy share an inspiring conversation with professional runner, Sophia King about the strength we find within ourselves to push through the unexpected and the daily grind of life.
Going for gold, over 21,000 runners filled the River City streets Saturday morning for this year’s Allianz Richmond Marathon, CarMax Half Marathon and VCU Health Richmond 8K. Preparations and early mornings for training did not deter the thousands of runners navigating through downtown Richmond and beyond on Saturday, Nov. 15. 8News spoke to some racegoers, who were drinking up the excitement of such a big race day.
The 48th running of the Allianz Richmond Marathon marked a highlight year, welcoming the largest participant field in the event’s history. More than 21,000 runners took part across the Allianz Richmond Marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and VCU Health Richmond 8k, each distance reaching full capacity well in advance of race day.
America’s Friendliest Marathon is returning to the River City this weekend—bringing thousands of runners to Richmond for the 48th annual Allianz Richmond Marathon. But before the big day, many of those athletes are taking part in a beloved (and delicious) pre-race ritual: carb-loading at Joe’s Inn in the Fan.
Students at Pocahontas Elementary School in Powhatan County are lacing up their sneakers for more than just exercise. The school's run club is teaching kids about fitness, friendship and giving back to their community.
From start to finish, America’s Friendliest Marathon is fully equipped to care for athletes — no matter what race day brings. As thousands of runners take on 26.2 miles through the city, VCU Health and local first responders will be stationed along the course, ready to respond to anything from minor injuries to medical emergencies.
This year’s Richmond Marathon isn’t just about miles—it’s about movement. A movement led by women changing the face and the pace of the running industry. The women behind Game Changers aren’t just talking the talk—they’re running the run. The national program provides training, resources, and funding to help more people of color become certified run coaches, breaking barriers and creating new opportunities in a sport where representation has long lagged behind.
A community of military veterans, their families and friends will gather at the Richmond Marathon to honor fallen service members through running and remembrance. Wear blue: run to remember will hold a Circle of Remembrance at 6:30 a.m. on race day at the intersection of North 4th and East Broad streets, between where the Richmond Marathon and half marathon are set to start.
With the Richmond Marathon just days away, 8News sat down with the local designer who dreamed up this year’s finisher medal to learn more about how it embodies the energy, history and heart of this beloved River City tradition.
Richmond woman Christina Mayhugh is turning 50 on Saturday and she's celebrating in a way that only 1% of the population does: by running her first marathon.
After spending two years on tour in Afghanistan with the Army, Matthew Reed started to lose his vision. For a while it felt like he couldn't do the same activities he loved, until he started working with Sportable and focusing on all the things he could still accomplish. He's running the full marathon this Saturday.
District Running Collective is bringing a group from DC to run Richmond, and to be part of the infamous Allianz Richmond Marathon Community Spirit Group stop with We Off The Couch and November Project. See what's in store with DJ Matt and Stephanie!
The 2025 Allianz Richmond Marathon is set to make history, with all three distances—the full marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and VCU Health Richmond 8k completely sold out. More than 21,000 runners from all 50 states and 24 countries will take to the streets of Richmond on Saturday, November 15, marking the largest field in event history.
This is maybe the biggest podcast in On The Move history because it's our 100th episode! Nan & Kam sit down with Meghan Keogh, Race Director of the Allianz Richmond Marathon, to talk all things race week and what you can look forward to when you run Richmond!
The Allianz Richmond Marathon is known for being 'America's Friendliest' and a huge part of that is our Community Spirit Groups. Lance Brown, from November Project, has been a part of the famous cheer squad located two miles from the finish for the last few years. They've taken the winning title multiple times, so he has the insight your group needs to make this year wilder than ever!
For the first time in its 48-year history, the Allianz Richmond Marathon race weekend has completely sold out across all three distances — the marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and the VCU Health Richmond 8k. A total of 21,200 runners and walkers will take to the streets in downtown Richmond on Saturday, November 15, marking a milestone moment for “America’s Friendliest Marathon.”
With the Allianz Richmond Marathon coming up in a few weeks we sat down with the lead volunteers behind the water stops. Jay, JM, and Marci manage all the stops along all three courses, and work with the hundreds of volunteers that make race day possible. Warning - listening may make you want to volunteer!
Boston hopefuls will be thrilled to learn that “America’s Friendliest Marathon” is also one of its fastest. Richmond’s rolling course blends scenery with history, passing through diverse neighborhoods and along the James River in the full flush of fall. And while the fast course with its downhill riverfront finish is a perennial BQ favorite, the ultimate compliment may be that Richmond “feels like a much larger event than it really is” thanks to enthusiastic volunteers and outstanding community support, not to mention several Party Zones and frequent live music.
Bethany Britz has been a Kids On The Move fitness coach with her Kids on the Move 804 club. Her passion for helping led her to fundraising for a charity entry into the Allianz Richmond Marathon. She's already surpassed her goal and we can't wait to see her crush her race.
The CarMax Richmond Half Marathon has reached its 10,000-participant capacity, officially selling out nearly 10 weeks before runners hit the streets on Saturday, November 15.
As you may have seen, the Allianz Richmond Marathon is officially sold out! With the Wait List and the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon quickly filling, Nan & Kam chatted with Meghan Keogh, the new Race Director for the event. Get excited for November!
Last year, the marathon reached capacity in early November, just days before the event. Organizers had predicted a 2025 sellout after announcing record-breaking registration trends earlier this summer, and with the 6,200-participant cap now reached months in advance, attention turns to the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, which is also expected to sell out ahead of race day, and the VCU Health Richmond 8k, which is on pace to have a record-breaking year.
The Allianz Richmond Marathon sold out earlier than ever before this year, which shows the popularity of the race and a growing running scene in the River City.
For the second year in a row, the Allianz Richmond Marathon has officially sold out—this time well ahead of race day--further underscoring its reputation as America’s Friendliest Marathon and as a premier running event. The 48th running takes place on Saturday, November 15, alongside the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon and the VCU Health Richmond 8k.
Last year, the Allianz Richmond Marathon had a record-breaking year, with 21,309 runners participating across all three race distances. This year, registration numbers are already outpacing 2024, and with an important price increase set for July 1, organizers are anticipating a second consecutive sell-out.
Running has saved Christopher David’s life twice — and killed him once. The sport has also saved the life of Richmond native Tiffany Fleming Johnson, a nurse in a cardiac unit at VCU Health and a fitness warrior marathon training coach with Sports Backers.
Nan & Kam sit down with the winner of the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon, and Richmond local, Rob Mazzanti. Rob gives the inside scoop on what it's like to be at the front of the pack, his mindset, training, and favorite race day memories. Did we mention he only started running two years ago?
Nan & Kam recap the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon and tell you what they were up to behind the scenes! Hear about the best signs, intense golf cart missions, and more. Plus, we highlight all that's to come in the spring season!
Running can mean so many things to so many different individuals. The rise of Richmond run clubs has allowed for the creation of meaningful safe spaces for everyone to accomplish their goals. Last week, the Health & Fitness Expo of the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon featured a live panel on 'What Running Did For Me' moderated by Lindsey Hein, and featuring Anthony Clary of We Off The Couch, Suellen Henneberry of Sportable, Kleigh Koupal of Effect Run Club, and Josh Leidy of 804 Run Club. Check out all they had to say about their respective clubs, running journeys, and advice for marathon runners!
Nearly 21,000 people laced up their running shoes for the event on Saturday morning.
Arms raised in triumph, Richmonder Robert Mazzanti won the 47th Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon, as a record group of runners raced through the streets of the city.
Saturday marked the 47th Richmond Marathon. It was a record-breaking year with nearly 21,000 runners in the 8K, half-marathon and marathon. The oldest runner, at 87 years old, ran all 26.2 miles with his family by his side. In his third marathon, Doctor Rao Yalamanchili finished in just under seven-and-a-half hours.
A Richmond man has conquered the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon after enduring a frightening health emergency during last years race.
Sports Backers designer Dion Ellis spoke to 8News about his vision for creating this year’s Richmond Marathon medals.
Among the veteran runners and newcomers hitting the road when the Richmond Marathon kicks off Saturday morning will be two Boston natives running the race for the first time.
One Richmond couple is sharing their unique love story, which began when they literally ran into each other. Their love for running just happened to be the one thing that brought them together.
Virginia‘s for lovers, but Richmond’s for runners. For the past few years, the River City has embraced its runners, and two years ago, it was designated a " runner-friendly city.”
It's National Pickle Day, and we thought what better way to celebrate than with the Vice President of The Pickle Juice Company, Filip Keuppens. The Pickle Juice Company provides all of our pickle juice for the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon. We provide a lot of pickle puns, and learn some truly jaw dropping facts about the creation of pickle juice.
The 2024 Richmond Marathon, half marathon and 8K have set an all-time registration record. All three races have had 20,939 people sign up as of 4 p.m. Wednesday. The previous record was 20,586 runners in 2014. In addition to the record, the full marathon and half marathon are sold out, hitting their caps of 6,200 and 10,000 runners respectively.
We've got Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon Race Director, Megan Schultz in the studio to answer all of your burning questions about race weekend! We cover everything from what time you should get to the start, to what you can expect on the menu at our junk food stops!
The Richmond Marathon’s first-ever female announcer, who is an experienced marathoner herself, spoke to 8News to give advice to runners before race day. Lindsey Hein hosts a podcast called “I’ll Have Another,” which features laid-back conversations with members from the running community. In 2023, she became the first female announcer for the Richmond Marathon.
The Richmond Marathon is just days away, and it would not be possible without the team at Sports Backers. And it’s women who are doing a lot of the heavy lifting. The Richmond-based nonprofit now has a majority of female staff, and most of its leadership positions are held by women.
David Griffin lined up at the 2023 Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon looking for a PR. Instead he collapsed around mile 13 and suffered a cardiac arrest. After a year of focusing on recovery, David has made a miraculous turnaround and will be running the 2024 marathon, celebrating just how far he's come.
Some people find running or training for a race alone tricky. Luckily, the River City is full of run clubs that meet almost every day of the week. In the last couple of years, the number of people lacing up their shoes and going the extra mile has continued to grow.
PR and Communications Manager, Nan Callahan, stops by NBC12 to talk all things Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon. Hear about all the new and exciting things happening this year that you can look forward to on race day!
We're excited to have podcast host and run-fluencer, Lindsey Hein, returning for her second year at the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon. Last year Lindsey made history as our first female announcer. This year she's back on the mic, and you can find her moderating a live panel titled 'What Running Did For Me' with some big names in the Richmond running scene. Other than than you can find her at Stella's Market, because she's obsessed.
Did you know the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon is a top Boston Qualifier? Our relatively flat course and downhill finish make us the perfect race to make your BQ dreams a reality! Let us be a stop on your bucket list journey!
The Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon is set to celebrate its 47th year on November 16, 2024. Known as “America’s Friendliest Marathon,” this event has become a beloved tradition not only for the thousands of runners who have spent months preparing, but also for the entire Richmond community. To build on the excitement of race weekend, race organizers have planned a series of special activities and programming designed to elevate the race weekend experience.
There's nothing quite like training for your first full marathon! Sue Henneberry is a an adaptive athlete with Sportable who completed her first half marathon last year, and quickly decided a full marathon was her next move. She's training with Sports Backers Marathon Training Team and does a variety of sports to cross-train.
The Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon tries to cater to all our participants and a huge part of that is our pace teams! This week Nan & Kam talk with Karen McCarthy, the pace team coordinator, and Steven Kim, who paced the race last year. Hear all about the mindset of a pacer, how you can join a team, and how you can volunteer to make someone's race day goals come true!
If you're a part of the running scene in Richmond chances are you've heard of Elliott, or you've seen him on a run, at a race, or in our marketing material! He's been a part of Sports Backers Marathon Training Team for over 20 years and is extremely active in all things running. We talk about how he discovered his love of running in his 40s and more!
Thinking about running Richmond this November? Need to up your miles for a fall race? We chat with the head coach of Sports Backers Marathon Training Team, Carrie Parker. Learn more about the program and find out what makes MTT so beloved!
The Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon celebrates its 46th running on November 11. While race day is seen as the catalyst of all the excitement, this year participants will have the chance to interact with multiple podcasters and influencers in the running community across various platforms leading up to race weekend and beyond.
Start times for the three distances on November 11 have been updated! In a continued effort to provide the best participant experience possible, Sports Backers, the event organizer, has made the decision to shuffle the race start times.
The 45th running of marathon included CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, VCU Health Richmond 8k. Over 16,000 runners registered to take part in all three races combined, and tens of thousands more spectators lined the streets to cheer on runners as they made their way to the riverfront finish in downtown Richmond.
Rob Waddell, a long-time Richmond resident who recently relocated to Virginia Beach, will be running Richmond for the 25th consecutive time in this year’s Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon.
Sports Backers and Allianz Partners celebrated the kickoff of the new partnership with an event logo unveiling at the marathon finish line on 5th Street and Tredegar Street that featured representatives of both organizations as well as members of the Richmond running community.
The 2021 VCU Health Richmond Marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and Allianz Partners 8k celebrated a return to the traditional event format in downtown Richmond with a course record in the first race of the day.
Walmart Health & Fitness Expo takes place Nov. 11 and Nov. 12 at the Richmond Raceway track.
The VCU Health Richmond Marathon will take place in its traditional one-day, in-person format in downtown Richmond on November 13.
Sports Backers announces a new partnership with CarMax, making the Richmond-based retailer of used cars the title sponsor of the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon.
The 2020 Richmond Marathon wrapped up 16 days of running in Dorey Park and the Virginia Capital Trail on November 22, with over 5,500 registered participants taking advantage of the in-person and virtual options offered by Sports Backers, the event organizers.
The event will feature a certified course, water bottle refill stations, mile markers, and chip timing.
The 2020 Richmond Marathon is now partnering with RunSignup to give participants a groundbreaking timing solution that will provide official results on a USA Track & Field (USATF) certified course.
Course to also include distances for the Richmond Half Marathon and Allianz Partners 8k.
The VCU Health Richmond Marathon is one of the top 25 qualifying races for the Boston Marathon!
The results are in and we are proud to be voted one of the best marathons in the country by Bib Rave!
VCU Health has been affiliated with the event since 2016 and begins title sponsorship with the 2019 race.
These events feature top-notch production in locations where cooler weather lends itself to speedy finish times.
From cities that are home to iconic running moments to top-ranked park systems, this list has something for every runner.
Christopher McDougall, the best-selling author of ‘Born to Run,’ will visit the race expo on Friday, November 15.