Description
The Columbia regions beautiful southern scenery serves as the backdrop for the inaugural Columbia SC Marathon. Famous for reaching tip top temperatures during the late summer months, springtime in Columbia proves to be the perfect, moderate temperature for runners to enjoy this all paved, road race.
Having not held a marathon since the Womens US Olympic Team Trials in 2000, the City of Columbia is set to host its first marathon in 12 years!
The first leg of the race takes runners through the popular Congaree Vista district, rich with a variety of restaurants, art galleries and retailers. Located along the banks of the Congaree River, the Congaree Vista was once a vital warehouse district filled with textile mills and railroad stations. Today is once again a center of activity in the city.
After a brief run into Five Points, participants run through the historic neighborhoods of Shandon, Sherwood Forest, Heathwood and Lake Katherine, all showcasing homes and bungalows with Southern charm, class and character. Shandon is a vibrant, multi-generational community whose homes reflect one hundred years of architectural heritage. The wide, tree-lined streets are favorites of residents and others who stroll, walk, jog or run, while the neighborhood children and adults enjoy the pleasant parks spaced throughout the urban suburb.
After completing the portion of the course near gorgeous Lake Katherine, runners will make their way back toward downtown Columbia, running along popular Trenholm Road.
Before heading back into the Congraee Vista area, where marathon runners will start their second loop, runners will continue on Gervais St., running pass the South Carolina State House. Right in the hub of downtown Columbia, the copper domed South Carolina State House houses the government of South Carolina. Construction began on the structure in 1851, and damage to the building from General Shermans cannons is marked with bronze stars. The State House serves as an anchor facing the thriving Main Street corridor; a street filled with unique restaurants, retail shops, rooftop bars and Columbias Museum of Art.
The last mile of the course will take runners through the University of South Carolina campus on Pickens St., Greene St., Sumter St. and past well-known campus landmarks including, The Russell House, Longstreet Theater and The Horseshoe. Part of USCs original campus dates back to 1805 and is still the heart of the University. The 11 buildings that make up the tradition-rich Horseshoe frame a lush lawn that is an irresistible gathering place for students, faculty, local residences and alumni.
Making their way to toward the end, runners will turn left onto Pendleton Street where they will be able to start breathing a sigh of relief and enjoy a mile, downhill, straight-away stretch to the ever important finish line!
Event schedule and times
Health & Fitness Expo on March 9th 12:00 PM-8:00 PM & March 10th 5:30 AM-2:00 PM.
Pre-Race Dinner with Dick Beardsley on March 9th 6:00 PM-8:00 PM
Packet Pick-Up at expo on Fri. & Sat. Race day registration available until 30 prior to race start
Marathon & Half Start: 7:00 AM
Kid's Marathon Start: 7:10 AM
10K Start: 11:00 AM
