The Ellerbe Marathon and Half Marathon

Ellerbe, United States • 28 Feb 2026

The Ellerbe Marathon and Half Marathon

The event takes place on February 28, 2026 in Ellerbe, North Carolina, with the start and finish near the Ellerbe Rescue Squad headquarters at 106 Sunset Ave. The race has been held continuously since its first running in 1992 and is described as the oldest continuously held marathon in North Carolina. The event includes both a marathon and a half marathon.

  • Marathon - 26.2 miles
  • Half Marathon - 13.1 miles

Course and race details

Both the marathon and half marathon courses are USATF certified. Runners leave Ellerbe on Page St., complete a loop in the countryside, and return to Ellerbe at 13.1 miles for the half marathon finish; marathon participants run the same loop twice. All roads used are paved state secondary roads and remain open to traffic. Aid stations provide snacks, water, and Gatorade. Finishers receive a custom medal and a pottery wine cup, and t-shirts are presented before the race. A post-race meal is provided. A course map and certification details are available on the race website. The 2026 entry fees are listed as $60 (early deal), $75, and $85 depending on registration period. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

Marathon
Marathon
Half Marathon
Half Marathon
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Take on the Derby 50K in Ellerbe North Carolina on Nov 29, a three loop counterclockwise course of rolling hills on asphalt and dirt. Finish with a community spaghetti meal and help support local causes.

Join the Freedom Starts Here run in Pinehurst on January 10 to raise funds for Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge, a faith centered recovery program. Choose 10K, 5K or 1 mile, enjoy Reservoir Park trails, swag, medals and family friendly fun.

Miles 4 Moore in Pinehurst offers marathon, half and 5K options to raise funds for gym memberships, coaching and nutrition for low income families and local high school athletes. Enjoy scenic Sandhills trails, aid stations and food trucks.

Tackle 25K or 50K on sandy, rooty trails beneath longleaf pines at Weymouth Woods on April 4, 2026. This cupless event includes a tech shirt, finisher medal, and proceeds benefit Friends of Weymouth Woods.