Ashland Half Marathon & 5k


Event Overview
If you’ve never been to Ashland, Virginia look no further than the Ashland Half Marathon & 5k to find yourself soaking in every ounce of the colorful town! Dubbed “The Center of the Universe” this quaint community has historic homes, a bustling downtown, and delicious restaurants and breweries. Whether you choose to participate in the half marathon or 5k, each course promises an escape to small-town Virginia and the chance to run alongside a passing train. All aboard because this is one race you can’t miss!
The Ashland Half Marathon & 5k is an event of Sports Backers and Richmond Road Runners Club.

WHat’s included?
Every participant will receive a bib with chip timing, finisher medal, post-race food, and more! Half Marathon participants will receive a technical shirt or tank.

Course Overview
The Ashland Half & 5K takes you through the heart of one of Virginia’s most charming small towns—affectionately known as The Center of the Universe—and along a route that’s equal parts scenic and timeless.

Event Schedule
Friday, August 22
Packet Pickup
Saturday, August 23
7:00 a.m. – Half Marathon Begins
7:35 a.m. – 5k Begins

Event Pricing
Half $ / 5k $
June 16 – July 15: $70 / $30
July 16 – August 18: $75 / $35
August 19 – August 23: $80 / $40
RRRC Members = $5 discount
Discover the “Center of the Universe!”

Event Charity: Kids On the move
Kids On The Move, a Sports Backers initiative, inspires thousands of local kids to run and stay active, promoting lifelong health. In partnership with the Richmond Road Runners Club, the program offers free training and helps cover shoes, shirts, transportation, and event fees for schools in low-income areas, ensuring every child can join. Donations help open the door to better health and fitness for these kids.
rules & Regs
We know, we know—rules aren’t the most exciting part of race day. But, they’re what keep our events running smoothly. Please take a minute to check out the do’s, don’ts, and guidelines that help make this event awesome for everyone.
FAQs
Questions? We’ve got answers! Check out the FAQs for everything you need to know about the Ashland Half Marathon & 5k, from race day logistics to course details and more.
Where can I park on Race Morning?
The Start Line is located at N Railroad Ave & College Ave. We encourage carpooling to ensure ample race day parking options for all. Parking is available in these locations:
- North Brock Parking Lot: 400 Center St Ashland, VA 23005 (Map Location J)
- Physical Plant Parking Lot: 115 N. Railroad Ashland, VA 23005 (Map Location B)
- Old Tennis Court Parking Lot: 100 W. Patrick Street Ashland, VA 23005 (Map Location M)
- Visitor Parking Lot: 203 Caroline Street Ashland, VA 23005 (Map Location T)
Click to view the Randolph -Macon College Campus Map with parking locations.
Please do not park in the Town Hall lot in the road in front of Town Hall. The Ashland Farmers Market is using this space starting at 7:30am on Saturday morning.
Are there Course Time Limits
The Ashland Half Marathon has a 3.5 hour time limit. The Ashland 5k has a 1.5 hour time limit.
What Participants Are Saying!

This was my 3rd time running Ashland and it was a great race atmosphere! Looking forward to running this one again in the future!
Madelyn Tatum, 2024 Half Participant
The scenery is lovely and the energy and volunteers are wonderful. Would definitely recommend!
Chaya Rosenberg, 2024 Half Participant
