Baptist Health: The American Bluegrass Classic

Marathon - Half Marathon - 4 Person Marathon Relay

Experience one of Kentucky’s fastest and most runner-friendly courses at the American Bluegrass Classic. Set against the backdrop of the Ohio River and the energy of the Riverfront Fall Festival weekend (Octoberfest/Cars and Guitars), this race combines Kentucky charm with big atmosphere.

Whether you’re chasing a PR or your first finish line, our smooth, spectator-friendly looped course keeps you engaged from start to finish. The American Bluegrass Classic punches above it's weight to offer the perfect race for Boston Qualifiers and 50 Staters, while giving runners a chance to celebrate in the UNESCO Creative City of Paducah.

This Race is BUILT FOR SPEED!

Flat, PR friendly course

Loop design = constant energy and crowd support!

Ideal for first timers AND serious racers

Marathon runners will run 4 loops, half-marathoners will run 2 loops, and relay runners will run 1 loop (which is slightly longer than a 10K). The race will start and finish in our Historic Downtown.

There's something for everyone in the family on Oktoberfest weekend. Great music, food, beverages and even activities for the kiddos! In addition to Oktoberfest, Downtown Paducah is also hosting "Cars and Guitars" after the race. With more great live music and premium collection cars to line the streets of downtown.

This is everything a race weekend should be!

USATF Certification number KY26003DJR

Race Weekend Info

The course closes at 1pm, so you have 6 hours to finish.

Packet pickup will be held on Friday, Oct 16th from 10am to 7pm at the Paducah Expo and Convention Center:

415 Park St, Paducah, KY 42001

Enter through the doors with "Welcome Runners" banner

Bag Drop will be available the morning of the race from 5:30-6:30am at the Paducah Visitors Center Office:

128 Broadway St. Paducah, KY 42001

This location is right next to the Finish Line, which is visible from the Start Line (1 block away). You must be wearing your bib to pick up your bag.

Important Note: No dogs or animals are allowed to accompany runners during the race.

There will be hydration stations approximately every mile that will include both water and an electrolyte drink. SIS Gels will also be available at water stations while supplies last.

All runners will recieve a finisher medal, tech shirt, digital timing bib and more!

Special awards will be given for the following finishers:

Marathon:

Overall Male and Female - 1st, 2nd and 3rd place

Overall Masters (Age 40+) Male and Female - 1st place

Overall Grandmasters (Age 50+) Male and Female - 1st place

Half Marathon:

Overall Male and Female - 1st, 2nd and 3rd place

Overall Masters (Age 40+) Male and Female - 1st place

Overall Grandmasters (Age 50+) Male and Female - 1st place

4 Person Relay:

Male Team - 1st Place

Male Masters (40+) - 1st Place

Female Team - 1st Place

Female Masters (40+) - 1st Place

Mixed Coed - 1st Place

Paducah: Kentucky's Hidden Gem

Nestled at the confluence of the Ohio River and Tennessee River, Paducah brings the weight of national acclaim and cultural tourism in a big-small city way.

Add in Paducah’s unexpected international pedigree as a UNESCO Creative City with a thriving arts scene and you’ve got a race destination that delivers the goods for a race weekend that's rare and unforgettable.

Just steps from the course, you’ll find standout dining such as Freight House, led by Sara Bradley of Top Chef fame. This is just one of the iconic restaurants that compliment Paducah's scenic riverfront views, historic charm and creativity.

Paducah's commitment to its visitors gives you plenty to choose from with lodging, shopping and entertainment without the big city hassles. For more information about your stay in Paducah visit the Paducah Travel website here.

Paducah Travel

Nathan Brown of the Solid Rocket Boosters performing at Oktoberfest

OUR SPONSORS LOVE RUNNERS!

This race wouldn't be possible without the generosity of our community partners and sponsors. Please remember these great organizations and show them some love when you can!

Course Maps

Follow Us On Social Media!

http://www.AmericanBluegrassClassic

Contact Form

Event Location

Historic Downtown Paducah
215 Jefferson St.
PADUCAH, KY 42001-1863 US View Location on Map

Founders and Advisory Board

This race would not be possible without the generosity and expertise of our Founders and Advisory Board. On behalf of all staff and participants we'd like to thank:

Eric and Denise Romanak - Race Directors

Ken Hunt
Steve Powless
Dr. Robert Haugh

McCracken County Sports Tourism Commission

John Durbin - Advisory Board
Laura Grumley - Advisory Board

Laura Kelly - Volunteer Coordinator