Run Sunset Beach
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Event overview
Run Sunset Beach is a road race event in Sunset Beach, North Carolina on April 11, 2026. The event offers multiple in-person and virtual distances and is part of the BAM (Big Ass Medals) race series. Finishers receive a commemorative medal; race shirts are included for most distances while the 1 Mile shirt is an optional add-on.
Distances
- Half Marathon
- 10K
- 5K
- 1 Mile
- Virtual options for Half, 10K and 5K
Course and support
The half marathon tours both the mainland and the island sections of Sunset Beach and crosses the intracoastal waterway bridge. The 10K also crosses the intracoastal bridge and spans the island. The 5K starts and finishes in the waterfront park and crosses the bridge. The 1 Mile is a three-loop course entirely in the park; it is not certified or timed. Coastal Race Productions states that all courses are USATF measured and certified. The half marathon will have eight water stops with water and Gatorade; the 5K has one water stop. A support truck will monitor the route and over 100 volunteers will assist with course direction and aid stations. There are flag mile markers for every mile on the half and 5K.
Logistics, awards and extras
Packet pickup is held the day before the race on April 10 at a location near Sunset Beach. Parking lots near the park are secured and a shuttle runs from a large lot near Ingram Planetarium. Age-group awards and overall awards are offered for the half and 5K; overall awards use gun time and age-group awards use chip time. Post-race food includes bananas, Gatorade, pizza and beer (one included beer ticket per bib). Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
