Hoptown Half Marathon and 5K

How do I register?

Registration is available online through October 17, 2026. 

 

Is there a limit to the number of participants?

No.

 

Where do I pickup my packet?

Packets may be picked up Friday, October 16, 2026 at the Thomas Street Recreation Center (located at 2600 Thomas Street Hopkinsville, KY 42240) from 11:00 AM until 6:00 PM. There is also packet pickup the morning of the race in the parking lot of the Justice Center, 100 Justice Way, Hopkinsville KY from 6:00 AM until 7:30 AM.

 

Can someone else pickup my packet for me?
Yes. They will need a copy of your photo ID and race confirmation.

 

Can I pickup my packet on race morning?

Yes, but if at all possible, please try to pick up your packet the day before. Race day packet pickup will be available from 6:00AM-7:30AM in the Justice Center parking lot at 100 Justice Way, Hopkinsville KY.

 

Will I receive a finisher's medal?

Yes, all finishers will receive the a 2026 medal for either the Hoptown Half Marathon or 5K.

 

Will I receive a shirt?

Yes, all finishers will receive a long-sleeved technical performance shirt.

 

Is the race timed?

The Half Marathon and 5k are chip-timed by Bluegrass Timing. Your chip timer will be located on the back of your race bib. Your bib must be worn in the FRONT on the outermost layer of clothing, so that it is visible, to be timed.

 

Are there awards for the top finishers?

Yes. The top 3 overall in the Half Marathon & 5K race will receive an award. These awards will be given at the finish of the race.

 

What are the age groups?

9 & under, 10-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 & over

 

Will there be age group awards?

Yes, the top 3 in each age group of the Half Marathon & 5K will receive an award. These awards will be given at the finish of the race.

 

What time does the race start?

• The Half Marathon starts at 8:00 AM

• The 5K starts at 8:20 AM

 

Where will the porta-pots be located?

The Justice Center parking lot (100 Justice Way, Hopkinsville KY), Founders Square (198 W. 9th St, Hopkinsville KY), near these mile markers along the half marathon course: 1,4,7,9, & 12, as well as these mile markers along the 5K course: 1, 2. There are flushing toilets near mile 11 at the Hopkinsville Dog Park on Pardue Lane, but they are slightly off the race course.

 

Will there be water/Gatorade along the course?

Yes, there will be water every 1-2 miles and Gatorade will be available near miles 4 and 10.

 

Will there be first aid stations on the course?

Yes. First aid kits will be available at the water stations near miles 4 and 10. They will also have sunscreen, hard candy, wooden sticks & Vaseline available upon request.

 

What time do I need to arrive on race morning?

Please try to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of the race.

 

Where is the start line?

The race will start AND finish at 100 Justice Way, Hopkinsville KY in front of the Christian County Justice Center building.

 

Can I register on race morning? 

Yes, but you must register on your own device. Paper forms and laptops will not be provided. Please come see us in the Justice Center parking lot at 100 Justice Way, Hopkinsville KY to pick up your packet.

 

Will the race be canceled if it's raining?

No, the race will go on rain or shine. In the event of lightning, we may delay the start of the race.

 

Where do I park?

There are multiple free parking lots located downtown, including the Justice Center.

 

Do you need volunteers?

Most definitely! Volunteers play a vital role in our success! You can sign up on our volunteer page HERE.

 

Does the race benefit a specific group?
Each year a portion of the race proceeds benefit a local group/organization. The 2026 beneficiaries have not been determined.

 

Can I change my mind and get a refund?

Sorry, but like most races, we cannot offer a refund for circumstances other than a cancellation of the race.

 

Can I switch race events?
Sorry, but like most races, participants cannot switch races after registering. We can transfer a registration to a new participant if you are able to find someone to take your place for the original event. Then you can re-register for a different event. Any participant transfers must be submitted prior to October 12th, 2026.
 

Will I receive a refund if the race is canceled?

Yes. We will refund your race fee if we have to cancel the race.

 

Can I run with my dog?

Sorry, no pets are allowed on the race course.

 

Can I run with a stroller?

Yes, but please start towards the back of the pack.

 

Are bicycles, skateboards, or rollerblades allowed?

No. The only bicycles allowed on the course are official race volunteers.

 

Can I walk?

Absolutely! There is a course time limit of 4 hours for the Half Marathon and 1 hour for the 5K. Walkers must finish under these times. Please start towards the back of the pack.

 

Will the road be completely closed?

Portions of the road will be open as needed to allow traffic through. In these areas, runners will need to run on the left side of the road.  Course monitors and safety personnel will assist with traffic along the course.

 

Where is the route?

Half Marathon: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/2880052?units=miles

5K: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/2880056?units=miles