UC Marathon returns to Charleston with first full race in nearly 30 years

By Hannah Yost, Real WV

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Runners will take to the streets of Charleston this weekend as the University of Charleston Marathon brings three races to the capital city, including the first full marathon held locally in nearly three decades.

The event will feature a 5K race on Saturday, followed by a half marathon and full marathon on Sunday.

The full marathon — a 26.2-mile course — is expected to draw significant attention, marking a milestone for the city’s running community.

Organizers say the course is designed to be fast and flat, guiding runners through several of Charleston’s most recognizable areas, including downtown, the historic Elk City district, Kanawha City, and the University of Charleston’s riverfront campus. The race will begin on Capitol Street.

Students from the University of Charleston Honors College have played a key role in organizing the event, assisting with planning, promotion, and race-day operations.

A major draw for participants is the race’s designation as a USA Track & Field (USATF)-certified course, allowing runners to use their times to qualify for major races such as the Boston Marathon, Chicago Marathon, New York City Marathon, and London Marathon.

Organizers say the certification represents a significant step forward for West Virginia’s running scene, positioning the marathon as a potential destination race on the national circuit.

More information, including a course map, is available at https://www.ucwv.edu/marathon/

Runners can still register for the race, and those interested in volunteering can also sign up at https://runsignup.com/Race/WV/Charleston/UCMarathon,