Charleston Distance Run

5K Turn by Turn Directions

1. Start Kanawha Blvd /WV State Capitol Steps
2. West on Kanawha Boulevard
3. Right on Dunbar Avenue
4. Right on Virginia Street East
5. Left on Rufner Avenue crossing the Railroad Tracks
6. Right onto Hansford to UC Stadium to Finish Line on a Rubber Race track

Where do the races start and finish?

All races start at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 31, 2024, in front of the West Virginia State Capitol Building at 1900 Kanawha Boulevard E., Charleston, WV.

All races finish at UC Statium-Laidley Field on a rubber race track. The stadium is within walking distance of the State Capitol, and the two share overflow parking.

Where can I park for the races?

Free parking is available at the State Capitol in the parking lot and building behind the Capitol for Saturday’s events. Parking also is available on various lots located on Washington Street East, near the intersection with Greenbrier Street, and also at Laidley Field. There is no baggage check on race day.

What is the average weather on race morning?

The weather can vary on race day. The average temperature at the start at 7:30 a.m. is approximately 60 degrees, but the temperature and humidity often rises significantly during the race. It has only rained twice during our 51 year history, but we will still run or walk if it rains.

What is the inclement weather policy?

Although it has never been necessary, the Race Director may cancel, delay, or change the events in case of extreme weather or other conditions that may affect the safety and health of the participants. In the event of extreme weather during the Race, the Race Director may decide to shut down the course. Should that occur, volunteers or traffic control on the course will be released from their positions; runners will be notified and asked to take shelter. If you refuse to take shelter and continue on the course, you do so at your own risk.

In the event of inclement weather, entry fees are non-refundable.

How are the races timed?

All events on Saturday will be timed, using a timing strip tag located on the reverse side of each runner’s bib. These are one-time use tags and do not have to be returned. Both “chip” times and “gun” times will be provided. Please be sure your race bib is clearly visible on the front of your shirt or on the front of your short’s right leg. Do not fold, wrinkle, or tear your race bib.

Where are the aid and water stations?

There are stations with water and Gatorade approximately one to two miles apart on the 15-mile and 5K run/walk courses. There are 12 stations total on the 15-mile course, plus stations at the start and finish.

Are there Portajohns at the race start and on the course?

Yes. There are a number of Portajohns on California Avenue at the start and also located throughout the 15-mile course.

Can I wear headphones during the race?

The use of personal listening devices with headphones or ear buds is strongly discouraged for safety reasons. We ask that you please remember that you are sharing the roads with other participants and, in some cases, vehicular traffic. Always be aware of your surroundings.

Are baby strollers/joggers or pets allowed during the race?

Baby strollers/joggers are allowed in the 5k race, but NOT the 15-mile race. We ask that they line up in the rear of the 5k group at the start, for safety reasons.

Pets are NOT permitted in either the 5k or 15-mile races.

What happens after the races?

Water, refreshments, and pizza will be available to all participants at Laidley Field. Showers will be available at Laidley Field until 11:00 a.m.