Lace up for the Medal Madness 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in scenic Olympia, Washington. This popular event, hosted at Heritage Park at 5th Ave SW & Water St SW, is renowned for its festive atmosphere and welcoming environment, making it ideal for runners seeking a new personal best or a vibrant race day experience. Participants can choose from three engaging distances: a 5K, 10K, or the challenging Half Marathon (13.1M), all kicking off at 8:30 AM with a generous 3-hour-30-minute time limit to accommodate all paces. Typical race day conditions in mid-March often see highs around 53F and lows around 34F, with a 26% chance of precipitation, offering pleasant running weather.
The course itself features an out-and-back route, primarily on paved surfaces, offering picturesque views of Olympia. The 5K navigates the out-and-back course twice, the 10K completes it four times, and half marathoners will tackle the 3.18-mile out-and-back section six times to reach their 13.1-mile goal. A highlight of the Medal Madness series is the unique, themed finisher medal awarded to every participant, a perfect memento of your accomplishment. Adding to the fun, runners are encouraged to partake in the best costume contest for a chance to win a special award.
As part of the US Road Running Race Series, the Medal Madness event also allows participants to earn valuable points towards their series standing. Packet pickup is conveniently available starting 30 minutes before the race, concluding just 10 minutes before the gun. Be sure to register online via RunSignup in advance, as on-site registration is not available. Prepare for an exhilarating day of fitness, community spirit, and the thrill of earning your unique medal in the heart of Olympia!
Sign in to join the discussion