Oak Ridge to Kingston Express Marathon and Half Marathon

The Oak Ridge to Kingston Express Marathon and Half Marathon, set for March 1, 2026, in scenic Oak Ridge, TN, is a unique and highly sought-after event for serious runners. This limited-entry race, capped at just 50 participants, is renowned for its exceptional focus on performance and consistently boasts one of the highest percentages of Boston Marathon Qualifying (BQ) times in the U.S.. Designed as a "no-frills" experience, it prioritizes the integrity of a USATF-certified course, creating an intimate environment ideal for achieving personal bests and BQ standards.

Both the 26.2-mile marathon and the 13.1-mile half marathon courses offer manageable elevation gains. The marathon follows an out-and-back format on the Oak Ridge Turnpike, featuring rolling hills and less than 600 feet of total elevation gain. The half marathon is a point-to-point route, also utilizing the highway's bike lane or shoulder, with less than 400 feet of elevation gain. A distinctive feature is the early start, where the initial 30 minutes are run in darkness under street lighting, necessitating high-visibility clothing, reflective gear, and a headlamp or flashlight for all participants. Aid stations are strategically placed at miles 3, 7, and 11 (outbound), with additional stops for marathoners at miles 15, 19, and 23, though runners should be prepared to be largely self-supported.

Typical race day conditions in early March offer favorable running weather, with highs around 56°F and lows around 36°F, and a modest 23% chance of precipitation. The marathon begins and ends at N. Jefferson Circle in Oak Ridge, while the half marathon is a point-to-point race with shuttles provided by race management from the finish back to the start area. This event is truly for the dedicated athlete looking to test their limits on a fast course without distractions, focusing purely on the race ahead.