Hell Of A Half Marathon & 2 Person Relay

Prepare for a true test of grit at the Hell Of A Half Marathon & 2 Person Relay, set to challenge runners on Saturday, August 8, 2026, in Exeter, California. This 13.1-mile paved looped course, starting and finishing at the Exeter Veteran's Memorial Park, lives up to its name with a demanding profile designed for those seeking ultimate bragging rights. After a relatively flat initial four miles through downtown, runners will confront two significant, mile-long climbs on Rocky Hill and Rocky Hill Drive, accumulating approximately 720 feet of elevation gain with steep descents in between, before a final push back to the finish line.

Runners should be ready for the typical Central Valley summer conditions, with historical data showing race day highs around 100F and lows around 64F, and a 0% chance of precipitation. The race begins at 7:00 AM PDT to help mitigate the heat, but temperatures often climb into the 80-90°F range during the event. To combat the heat, participants will find exceptional course support, with 11 aid stations fully stocked with chilled water, electrolyte drinks, GU gels, and even ice-soaked sponges and water guns to help cool down. Restrooms are also conveniently located along the course. The event also offers a 2-person relay option, allowing teams to conquer the challenge together with provided shuttle transportation.

Crossing the finish line at the Hell Of A Half Marathon is more than just completing a race; it’s an achievement celebrated with a lively post-race party featuring a free breakfast, a Michelob Ultra beer garden, live music from DJs on the course, complimentary race photos, and an awesome finisher medal. Praised by past participants for its fantastic course support and top-notch organization, this event, which also benefits the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation, is renowned for providing a unique, challenging experience that truly earns you those hard-won bragging rights.