Empire State Half Marathon
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Empire State Half Marathon and 5k
The event takes place on October 11, 2026 at Rockland Lake State Park in Congers, NY. It includes multiple race options and combined challenge entries.
- 13.1 Miles Half Marathon
- 5K The Scoop 5k
- 16.2 Miles Empire State Challenge combining the half and the 5k
- 23.1 Miles Empire State Challenge combining the half and a 10 mile event
The course is a USATF certified loop around Rockland Lake. Over the half marathon distance the course records 135 feet of cumulative elevation, with a highest point near 170 feet and a lowest near 155 feet, a difference of about 15 feet.
There are three aid stations on course offering water and Gatorade. An Elite Athlete Program is offered that can provide complimentary entry, personal water stations, preferred baggage claim, and in some cases lodging assistance.
Prize money is offered for individual and team results. Individual awards include $500 for first place male and female and first place masters male and female, $300 for second, and $200 for third in those divisions. Team awards include a $500 prize for top teams.
Half marathon and 5k finishers receive medals awarded in five year age groups with top three male and female finishers in each group. The half marathon age group winners also receive ice cream from the Sweet Guy Ice Cream Truck. Bib pickup is available at Road Runner Sports in Paramus and at the race site. The Empire State Challenge medal is awarded to runners who finish both required events at the conclusion of the half marathon. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
