Heroes of America Marathon
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Overview
The Heroes of America race weekend is scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2026 in Columbus, GA. The event offers multiple distance options and separate civilian and military categories, including a military relay Ranger Challenge. Minimum age limits are: marathon 16 years, half marathon 10 years, and 5K 6 years.
- 26.2 mi Marathon (Civilian and Military)
- 13.1 mi Half Marathon (Civilian and Military)
- 3.1 mi 5K (Civilian and Military)
- Relay Marathon (Ranger Challenge, military teams of up to 2)
Course and logistics
All races start and finish at the intersection of West 10th Street and Bay Avenue in front of Woodruff Park, two blocks north of the Columbus Marriott. The marathon course goes both north and south of Woodruff Park, uses the 14th Street pedestrian bridge onto the Riverwalk, includes a loop inside Fort Benning (Fort Moore), exits Fort Benning at mile 17, passes the Iron Works Convention Center, and returns under the train trestle to the start. The course is described as reasonably flat with some smaller inclines. The marathon course is USATF certified as a Boston Marathon qualifier (USATF GA17085WC). Hand-crank participants are not allowed on the marathon due to Riverwalk width.
Relay teams exchange at mile 13.1 inside Fort Benning; access requires military clearance and participants must obtain required badges in advance. Packet pickup is at the Columbus Marriott on the day before and on race morning. Parking is available at nearby deck garage and lots. Awards include a finisher t-shirt and medal, overall male and female winners, and age-group awards. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
