Charity Chase Half Marathon & 5K
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Event Overview
The Charity Chase Half Marathon & 5K marks its 20th anniversary in 2026. Held in Hickory, North Carolina, the event takes place in the foothills region and utilizes the downtown area for its race routes. The start line for both distances is located at the corner of 4th St NW and Main Ave NW.
Course Information
The half marathon course winds through the city and features notable elevation changes. Participants encounter total elevation gains and losses equivalent to a sixty-story building. The 5K route is designed to take runners through the downtown district of Hickory. Support on the course includes over 300 volunteers and safety personnel from the Hickory Police Department and local EMS. Water, sports drinks, and energy gels are provided at aid stations along the route.
Event Distances
- Charity Chase Half Marathon: A 13.1-mile run through the city foothills.
- Charity Chase 5K: A 5-kilometer run through the downtown area.
Awards and Recognition
The half marathon offers awards for the top three male and female finishers overall, as well as the top three finishers in age groups ranging from 1-14 to 65 plus. For the 5K event, awards are presented to the top three overall male and female finishers and the first-place finisher in each designated age category.
Logistics
Participants can collect their race packets on the Friday before the event at the Hickory Metro Convention Center. Alternatively, packet pickup is available at the race venue on the morning of the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
