Black Bear Half Marathon
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Distances and location
The Black Bear Half Marathon & 8k takes place in Hendersonville, North Carolina, in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Participants can choose from two distances: a half marathon (13.1 miles) and an 8k (5 miles).
Course details
Both courses start and finish in Jackson Park. They follow paved roads and forested greenways, offering scenic vistas and a relatively flat profile with less than 400 feet of total elevation gain. The courses are USATF-sanctioned and certified, and are described as very well-marked. Professional chip timing is used.
Participant experience
All finishers receive a commemorative medal. Participants receive a dri-fit event shirt free if registered before a deadline, with half marathon participants getting a long-sleeve shirt and 8k participants a short-sleeve shirt. A goody bag is provided by the presenting sponsor, Hunter Subaru. Prizes are awarded for overall and age group winners.
Event weekend and festivities
The event is held in the fall. A pre-event packet pickup is combined with a street festival featuring the Blue Ridge Artisan Market and Oklawaha Brewing. On race day, a Fall Market with local artisans, live music, and food is held at Jackson Park. Post-race festivities include live music, recovery services, and local vendors. Runners can present their race bib for a free beer at Oklawaha Brewing, located a few blocks from the finish line. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
