Air Force Marathon
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Event overview
The 2026 Air Force Marathon is the 30th anniversary running weekend at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio. The event takes place the weekend of September 18-19, 2026 and is held on the third Saturday of September. The marathon course is a Boston Qualifying course and finishes at the National Museum of the United States Air Force.
Race distances
- Marathon
- Half Marathon
- 10K
- 5K
- Tailwind Trot 1K Kids’ Run
Race divisions and challenges
The event adds a RUCK division for the 10K and Half Marathon. The AIM HIGH Challenge pairs the 5K with a choice of the Marathon, Half Marathon, or 10K. Participants in the AIM HIGH Challenge receive race shirts for both events, a finisher coin, medals for each race completed, and an AIM HIGH Challenge medal. Team registration is open to all; the event does not provide special team bibs, shirts, or awards.
Weekend activities and pricing
The weekend includes a two-day Health & Fitness Expo, a Gourmet Pasta Dinner, and a Finish Line Festival. In-person registration fees vary by date window; listed full marathon fees range from $85 to $145. Virtual race options are offered with fees generally listed from $50 to $60. A military discount is available for veterans, retired military, active duty, reservists, National Guard, and ROTC. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.