Ironclad Half Marathon
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Mother Earth Brewing Ironclad Half Marathon and 5K
The Mother Earth Brewing Ironclad Half Marathon and 5K is an annual running event in Kinston organized by Ironclad Races Inc. and sponsored by Mother Earth Brewing. Ironclad Races Inc. is a Kinston based non-profit that produces sporting events and donates proceeds to local nonprofit organizations and charities.
The event program includes two race distances:
- Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
- 5K
Organizers work with local businesses and volunteers to bring runners to the community and to highlight Kinston's historic and cultural sites. Past editions have involved partnerships with local groups and environmental initiatives, including installation of a river "Trash Trap" in collaboration with Mother Earth Foundation and Sound Rivers.
The race has recorded changing participation over time. Examples from past years include a virtual edition in 2020, a cancellation in 2021, and in recent years entries such as 2024 with 344 half marathon and 284 5K runners, and 2026 with 263 half marathon and 259 5K runners. Proceeds have supported a range of local beneficiaries, including HOPE Restorations, Mary’s Soup Kitchen, S.A.F.E. Kinston, smART Kinston, the Paramount Project, and other community organizations. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
