Hamden Hills Half Marathon & Flat 5K
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Event Overview
The Hamden Hills Half Marathon & Flat 5K is a 15th annual running event. It features two race distances: a Half Marathon and a Flat 5K.
Race Details
The event takes place on May 23, 2026. The half marathon starts at 7:00 AM, and the 5K starts at 7:15 AM. It is held rain or shine. The location is the Railroad Canal Line Parking Lot at 270 Sherman Ave. in Hamden, Connecticut.
Course Information
The Half Marathon course is described as hilly and challenging, running through the backcountry of Hamden. It uses the Rail-Trail for approximately the first two and last two miles. The roads on the course are open to traffic, with police and volunteers present at intersections. Aid stations with water and Gatorade are located at miles 2.5, 4.5, 6.5, 8.5, and 10.5. Portable toilets are available at the start/finish area and at miles 4.5 and 8.5. The official time cutoff for the half marathon is 3 hours and 30 minutes. An official early start at 6:30 AM is available for participants who plan to finish between 2:30 and 3:30.
The 5K is described as 100% on the rail-trail, making it flat with no car traffic. There is no time cutoff for the 5K.
Registration and Pricing
Registration is available online. Early bird pricing is listed as $38.98 for the 5K and $80.38 for the Half Marathon, which includes a processing fee. Prices increase after April 1, 2026. On race day, only cash, checks made out to "cash," and Venmo payments are accepted; cards are not accepted. Registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Participant Amenities
All entrants receive a short sleeve tech t-shirt. All half marathon finishers receive a custom finisher medal. At the finish line, participants receive Poland Spring Water, Gatorade Endurance, bagels, and bananas. Live results are provided via text and email, and free finish line photos are offered.
Awards
Custom pint pilsner glass awards are given to the top three overall male and female finishers, as well as the top three in age groups ranging from 10-14 to 80+.
Logistics
Bib and shirt pickup begins at 5:30 AM and closes at 6:45 AM. Participants must know their bib number for pickup. There is ample parking available at all Rail Trail lots and on the street where legal. Parking is not permitted in the Dunkin' Donuts / Amity Liquors lot. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
