Sam Costa Half Marathon

MAR
21
2026
The Sam Costa Half and Quarter Marathon holds the title of Indiana's oldest race, dating back to 1970. Organized by runners for runners, it takes place in Carmel with indoor pre- and post-race facilities. Choose from two distances, with a three-hour time limit for all participants.
Sat 21 Mar 2026
Half Marathon 11 kilometers

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About the event

The Sam Costa Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon is organized by the Indy Runners and Walkers club. It claims to be the oldest race in Indiana and the club's flagship event. The race was initiated in 1970 by educators and coaches from Carmel High School. The volunteer-led, not-for-profit club has managed it since the early 1980s.

Event distances

Two distances are offered:

  • A half marathon
  • A quarter marathon (approximately 6.55 miles)

Key details

The event has a 3-hour time limit for all participants. This translates to a minimum average pace of 13 minutes and 44 seconds per mile for the half marathon, or 27 minutes and 28 seconds per mile for the quarter marathon. Walkers are encouraged to select the quarter marathon distance.

Venue and organizer

The race takes place at Northview Church (Carmel Campus) in Carmel, Indiana. This location has been the race venue since 2006. The venue provides a warm indoor space for pre-race and post-race activities.

The organizing club, Indy Runners and Walkers, is described as Indiana's largest RRCA-affiliated running and walking club. All net proceeds from the race are used to benefit the local running and walking community. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Half Marathon
Sam Costa Half Marathon
11 km
Sam Costa Quarter Marathon