FAQ

University of Charleston Marathon FAQ - Registration Policies

No refunds are permitted.
Limited time offers are only applicable to new registrants. No price adjustments or refunds will be granted to existing registrants.
Participants may switch race distances by logging on to their RunSignup account by 4/6/2026 at 11:59pm.
Participants may transfer their registration to someone else by logging on to their RunSignup account. The registrant may gift their registration to another user, and the recipient is able to register for free. Transfers must be completed by 4/6/2026 at 11:59pm.
Participants may elect to defer their registration for one year. The participant will not receive a refund for deferred registrations.
Deferred registrants will receive a unique coupon code for next year’s race via email. Deferrals must be initiated by 4/6/2026 at 11:59pm.
We do not offer race day packet pick-up and race packets cannot be mailed prior to the race.
Participants unable to pick up their own race packet may have someone else pick up their packet for them. The person picking up your packet must have a completed copy of the Packet Pickup Authorization Form and copy of your photo ID. A photo of your ID shown on a phone is acceptable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Nutrition – Will there be gel on the course?

The University of Charleston Marathon is BYOG (Bring Your Own Gel). There will be Gatorade available at all the water stations for the marathon and half marathon courses.

Medals – Who gets a medal?

Marathon and Half Marathon finishers will receive a medal!

Weather – What will the weather be like?

Because the race is an early spring race the weather is often hard to predict. Normally the temperature at the start is in the mid 40’s and highs near the mid 60’s in the afternoon.

Accommodations – Where should I stay?

There are several hotel options within walking distance of the start/finish line. The UC Marathon Host Hotel is Four Points by Sheraton with rates from $159.00 - $209.00 per night. Last Day to Book: Monday, March 16, 2026. Book your special rate for the UC Marathon.

Awards – Are there cash prizes?

Cash Awards will be presented to the top three female and male Marathon finishers, totaling $2,500: 1st Place $800, 2nd Place $300, 3rd Place $150. Age group awards go to the top finisher in each age group, female and male. Overall winners are not eligible for age group awards.

Walking - Is walking allowed?

We love walkers! Our course is officially open for seven hours. Participants who remain on the course longer than the official time do so at their own risk.

Time Limit - How long is the course open?

The course will remain open for 7 hours. The streets re-open progressively at a 16 minute per mile pace.

Start - When time should I arrive to the start?

Please allow plenty of time to navigate road closures, park, and make your way to the start line for your pre-race routine. Parking is available in the City of Charleston parking garage located on Summers Street.

Shirts – Will I receive a participant shirt?

Yes! Marathon and Half Marathon participants will receive a full technical shirt and 5K participants will receive a cotton blend T-shirt.

Elevation – Are there hills?

The UC Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K courses are relatively flat. Check out our elevation profile on Strava.

Qualify – Can I qualify for Boston at the UC Marathon?

Yes, the marathon is a USATF certified course and a Boston qualifier.

Strollers and Pets – Can I push a stroller or bring my pet on the course?

Unfortunately, no. While we love little supporters and furry friends, strollers and pets are not permitted on the course.

Tracking – Will there be participant tracking?

Yes! We will offer participant tracking through a downloadable app - RTRT (Real-Time Race Tracking). We will provide QR codes for download at Packet Pickup, or search on your mobile App Store. University of Charleston Marathon will be available soon.

CAN’T FIND YOUR QUESTION?

We’re sorry you can’t find the answer to your question in our FAQ. Please send your question to marathon@ucwv.edu and we'll get back to you with an answer shortly.

Marathon Weekend Schedule

Packet Pickup – Riggleman Hall Rotunda, UC Campus

Friday, April 10, 2026 5:00pm – 8:00pm

Saturday, April 11, 2026 8:00am – 7:00pm

Friday, April 10, 2026

5:00pm-8:00pm Packet Pickup

Saturday, April 11, 2026

8:00am Packet Pickup Opens

9:00am 5K – University of Charleston Campus

5:00pm-7:00pm Pasta Dinner hosted by Spilman Thomas & Battle Law, UC Campus

5:00pm Registration Closes

7:00pm Packet Pickup Closes

Sunday, April 12, 2026

7:00am UC Marathon/Half Marathon Start

9:00am Party at the Plaza Opens - Sponsored by Vandalia Wealth

11:00am Awards, Slack Plaza

2:00pm Course Closes