Dave McKay Memorial Half Marathon

Dave McKay Memorial Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk

The event takes place on August 8, 2026 in Flagstaff, Arizona with an actual course at Thorpe Park and an option labeled "Your Anywhere Course." It is the 49th annual running hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flagstaff. All proceeds benefit BBBSF mentoring programs.

Distances offered include:

• 13.1 miles half marathon course on Observatory Mesa
• 5 km 5K on Observatory Mesa
• 1 km Kid's Dash

The half marathon course starts at Thorpe Park, climbs an urban trail onto Observatory Mesa, and follows dirt roads with views of the San Francisco Peaks. Elevation ranges from 6,957 ft at the start to about 7,731 ft near the 7.5 mile mark. Most climbing occurs within the first 1.25 miles. The 5K is also routed on Observatory Mesa.

Participants in the half marathon receive a commemorative finisher medal. Kid's Dash participants receive a medal. Half and 5K participants receive a $34 Sweatvac Hi-Tech long sleeve shirt, free digital race photos, and admission to a free pre-race pizza party on August 7 at Fratelli's Party Room behind the Fourth Street restaurant at 2120 N Fourth Street.

The event is walker friendly with an earlier start for slower half marathon participants; walkers receive a chip time and finisher medal but are not eligible for age division awards. Dogs are not permitted on the course during the race. A split the pot fundraiser is new for this year. The race is part of the 22nd annual Flagstaff Running Series; a series registration option is available with a deadline of June 14. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.