Orca Half Marathon
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Event overview
The Orca Half takes place Saturday and Sunday, September 19-20, 2026 in Seattle, WA. The weekend includes two half-marathon events (Saturday and Sunday), an 8-Miler on Sunday, the Blowhole Challenge (running both days), and a virtual option for the half marathon or 8-miler. The virtual event is limited to 100 spots and includes a mailed shirt and medal; virtual swag ships after the in-person race. Registration is non-refundable; entries can be deferred or transferred under the race policies. Participants 22 and under or 65 and over are eligible for a 15% discount.
Course and logistics
Both the half and 8-miler are point-to-point courses that start at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) and finish at Don Armeni Boat Launch (1222 Harbor Ave SW). Each course contains small out-and-back sections early on and a longer out-and-back later in the half. Runners use the parking lane, sidewalks, and the Alki Trail; roads remain open to traffic but the parking lane will be cleared of cars. The event is cupless; aid stations appear every 2-3 miles and are stocked with water, Tailwind electrolyte drink, and GU gels. Shuttles run only before the race from the finish area to the start; the shuttle drop-off is about a 1/2 mile mostly downhill walk to the waterfront. A free gear check at the start will transport bags to the finish. Overall awards are given by gun time and age-group awards are in five-year increments; awards must be picked up at the race. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
