WILMINGTON — On Saturday, Feb. 28, the Novant Health Marathon is returning to town with multiple races slated to take place from the beach to downtown Wilmington.
Roughly 5,500 athletes — from 49 states — are expected to descend on Wilmington to participate in the marathon, half-marathon, 5K and 1-mile Kid’s Glow Run. The event sold out in January, according to officials, with 1,000 runners also wait-listed.
“Each year, the marathon generates millions of dollars in economic impact during a key shoulder season for the region,” Tom Clifford, event organizer and founder of Without Limits, said. “To date, the race has given nearly $600,000 back to organizations across New Hanover County, and we look forward to another strong year of giving in 2026.”
The marathon course starts at Wrightsville Beach at Johnnie Mercer Pier on Saturday morning, with full marathon, half-marathon and marathon relay courses leading downtown and the full marathon looping Greenfield Lake and continuing back to the Riverwalk. All races finish at Live Oak Bank Pavilion.
Roads will be open to traffic throughout race events though some detours will be in place to minimize disruptions.
Volunteers are still needed and can sign up here; more information about the race can be found here.
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