Horse Capital Marathon
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Horse Capital Marathon & Half Marathon : Overview
The Horse Capital Marathon & Half Marathon takes place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, in Lexington, Kentucky. The event includes in-person marathon and half marathon races, a virtual runner/walker option, and a volunteer registration. The race benefits Blue Grass Farms Charities; 100% of participant donations and partial proceeds support that nonprofit. In-person and virtual participants receive a commemorative performance/technical shirt and a finisher's medal. A complimentary beer is provided to participants of legal drinking age.
Course, logistics and extras
- Marathon - 26.2 miles
- Half Marathon - 13.1 miles
Both races start and finish at the Kentucky Horse Park Campground on the paved Legacy Trail. The course passes more than 50 Central Kentucky horse farms and uses local country roads for most of the distance. The marathon route includes about 1,260 feet of elevation change and 17 hydration stations; the half marathon includes about 570 feet of elevation change and 8 hydration stations. Hydration stations serve water and SWORD electrolyte drink; some marathon stations offer bananas and salty snacks. Each hydration station has portable restrooms. The marathon has a 6-hour maximum time limit (roughly a 14:30 per mile pace requirement). Packet pickup is available on Thursday and Friday before the race and limited pickup on race day at the venue. Nearby hotels are located within about 3 miles of the start/finish. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
