Richmond’s running momentum continues as all half marathon entries are claimed months before race day
RICHMOND, VA – There may be months until race day, but the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon has already set a personal record. Organizers announced today that the event has officially sold out for the third consecutive year, with all 9,000 available entries claimed for the race on Saturday, November 14, as part of the Allianz Richmond Marathon weekend. Last year, the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon sold out in September.
The sellout comes on the heels of the Allianz Richmond Marathon’s fastest sellout in event history and further underscores the extraordinary demand for Richmond’s premier running event. Together, the back-to-back sellouts reflect the continued growth of Richmond’s running community and the national appeal of a race weekend that has become one of the most celebrated in the country.
“This is such an exciting moment for our event and our city,” said Meghan Keogh, Race Director of the Allianz Richmond Marathon. “The CarMax Richmond Half Marathon has broken the mold of being a complement race to the full and has helped make the event one of the largest participatory sporting events in Virginia. To see it sell out for a third straight year is a testament to the incredible experience our participants have come to expect. From the energy on the course to the support from our community, the enthusiasm we’re seeing now makes us even more excited as we look ahead to the 50th running of the Richmond Marathon in 2027.”
The CarMax Richmond Half Marathon has experienced remarkable demand over the past several years, attracting runners from across the country who are drawn to Richmond’s scenic course, enthusiastic spectators, and welcoming race-day atmosphere.
In 2027, Richmond will celebrate the 50th running of its marathon, a landmark anniversary that will honor five decades of unforgettable finish-line moments, community pride, and hundreds of thousands of personal achievements. Interest in the anniversary event is already building as runners look to be part of what promises to be an unforgettable celebration.
While the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon and Allianz Richmond Marathon have both reached capacity, registration remains open for the Capital One Richmond 8k, which continues to welcome runners and walkers of all experience levels. Last year marked the first time all three race distances reached capacity, and it’s expected to happen again, so prospective registrants are encouraged to sign up now.
Each November, Allianz Richmond Marathon weekend transforms Richmond into a citywide celebration of active living. Neighborhoods come alive with live music, themed cheer zones, and thousands of spectators who line the streets to encourage participants. The event showcases the very best of Richmond while generating a significant economic impact for local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
Runners still hoping to participate in the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon can join the official waitlist. Those on the waitlist will be notified if entries become available through distance changes, or deferrals and will have a limited time to complete registration. Waitlist members will also be among the first to receive updates regarding registration for the highly anticipated 50th anniversary Allianz Richmond Marathon weekend in 2027.
Sports Backers Youth Programs, the official charity of the Allianz Richmond Marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and Capital One Richmond 8k, have a limited number of charity entries available. Participants who commit to fundraising for Kids On The Move and Active Living Leadership ALL Stars receive a complimentary race entry while helping inspire active living among Richmond-area youth.
Registration for the Capital One Richmond 8k remains available. For more information about race weekend, charity entries, waitlists, and registration, visit richmondmarathon.org.
About Sports Backers
With a key message of Let’s Go, RVA, the mission of Sports Backers is to inspire people to live actively. A nonprofit organization, Sports Backers is dedicated to producing nationally recognized quality sporting events and programs that motivate residents and visitors alike to be more active, supporting youth running and fitness programs, and advocating for safe and connected networks of bike and pedestrian infrastructure. Learn more at sportsbackers.org