2026 Mercy Health Iron Mom Half-Marathon, Relay & 5K

Lace up for an inspiring journey at the 2026 Mercy Health Iron Mom Half-Marathon, Relay & 5K, set to take place on Saturday, May 9th, in the charming river city of Paducah, Kentucky. This beloved event, an established Mother's Day tradition, offers runners a choice between a challenging 13.1-mile half-marathon, a scenic 3.1-mile 5K, or the camaraderie of a 2 or 4-person half-marathon relay. The race kicks off from the vibrant downtown riverfront area, near the iconic "Wall to Wall" murals in Schultz Park, providing a picturesque start and finish along the Ohio River.

The half-marathon course is renowned for being largely fast and flat, ideal for personal bests or an enjoyable run. Runners will wind through Paducah's historic residential neighborhoods with the initial miles presenting a remarkably flat terrain. The only significant elevation changes occur between mile markers 4 and 6 as the route transitions onto the city's Greenway Trail, offering a mix of shaded sections and open stretches. Typical race day conditions in early May feature pleasant highs around 77°F and lows near 56°F, with a modest 19% chance of precipitation, creating comfortable running weather.

Beyond the scenic course, what truly makes the Mercy Health Iron Mom race special is its unwavering commitment to the community. Proceeds directly benefit the Family Service Society, Paducah's second-oldest non-profit organization, which provides crucial support like food, clothing, and emergency assistance to those in need. Participants consistently praise the supportive and inclusive atmosphere, with many embracing the event as a celebration of fitness and community. Join hundreds of fellow runners for a memorable race experience that not only challenges you physically but also gives back to the heart of Paducah.