Heart of America Marathon
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Heart of America Marathon & Relay - Columbia, MO
The Heart of America Marathon & Relay takes place in Columbia, Missouri on September 7, 2026. Organized by the Columbia Track Club, the event is described as continuously run since 1960 and is presented as a long‑running local marathon with an associated relay.
- Marathon: 26.2 miles, starts and finishes at Nifong Park.
- Relay: teams of 2 to 4; four legs of 3.8, 7.7, 6.9, 7.8 miles.
The course covers rural roads, the Katy Trail along the Missouri River, and passes Cooper’s Landing, Pierpont General Store, Easley and Rock Bridge State Park. Approximately 5.5 miles are on well‑maintained gravel roads or trails. The course includes the notable Easley Hill and has areas where runners must run single file because the course is open to traffic.
There are 13 aid stations offering water and ice; sports drink is provided beginning at Cooper’s Landing. No nutrition is provided at aid stations. Medical support is available on course and at the finish. A six hour time limit is strictly enforced and a sweep vehicle will pick up runners who cannot finish within the limit.
Additional event details include packet pickup hours, registration policies (no race day registration, no refunds, transfers allowed until September 5), limited relay team entries, award categories for marathon and relay, and on‑site post race amenities. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
