Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic
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About the race
The Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic in Jacksonville is an annual race day offering a half marathon, a 5K and a one-mile Turkey Trot. The event traces its history to 1984 when the half marathon began with 500 runners; the 2026 edition is the 43rd running. The half marathon originally started at Flynn Park and finished at Pickwick Park Shopping Center, which remains the finish location today.
Demetree Brothers provides use of Pickwick Plaza for the start and finish. Race swag includes a long-sleeve moisture-wicking shirt, a finisher medal, a race bib and a goodie bag. All finishers in the half marathon, 5K and one-mile receive a finisher medal at the finish line. The half marathon offers cash prizes for overall places and masters and age-group plaques; the 5K awards prizes by multiple age groups.
A portion of each entry is donated to the Mandarin Food Bank, and proceeds will also support construction and maintenance of a three-mile running and walking path in Aterro Recreation Park on Sunbeam Road. Course details note digital clocks at each mile and the finish, clearly marked miles and turns, traffic control by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office with traffic potentially on course, and a 3.5 hour course limit. Packets are available for pick up at selected 1st Place Sports locations on Tuesday, November 24 and Wednesday, November 25. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
