18 Years of Training for the Richmond Half Marathon!
2026 Sports Backers Half Marathon Training Team
It turns our one really is the loneliest number...
...especially when you’re training for a half marathon. So join up with other motivated runners as you embark on a 14-week program that prepares you for the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, a companion race of the Allianz Richmond Marathon. Our training teams have an incredible corps of experienced coaches, as well as dedicated SAG support for those long weekend runs, and we even offer informational clinics to keep you up-to-date on the latest in gear, nutrition, injury prevention and more. Did we mention this might be the coolest way to meet people in Richmond? Okay, so we don’t have proof, but we can guarantee you’ll end up with a few more pals than you had before.
👟HMTT Registration Includes:
- 14-week training program starting on Saturday, August 8, or Sunday, August 9 (you choose the day), with a detailed schedule for you to follow
- Personal guidance from our veteran team of experienced coaches
- Organized and supported weekly group Saturday or Sunday morning runs
- A special Sports Backers Half Marathon Training Team shirt and technical race shirt
- FREE entry in the 2026 CarMax Richmond Half Marathon and all associated race benefits
- Special Race Day support from coaches along the course
- Clinics on subjects like nutrition, running attire, and other related topics
📍HMTT Meeting Location
City Stadium, 3201 Maplewood Ave, Richmond, VA 23221
Questions❓Feedback❓
Questions or Feedback please reach out below
🚨RULES & POLICIES
MINIMUM FITNESS LEVEL: There is a four-hour time limit to complete the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, so you need to hold a 18 min/mile pace.
The Grizzles (the Walking Team) is back! They meet on Saturdays.
AGE LIMIT: You must be at least 14 years of age to participate. If you are under the age of 17, you must have a parent/guardian registered for the training team and present for all group training sessions.
CUP-LESS: All SAG/water stops are cup-less so you must be prepared with your own hydration device.
NOT ALLOWED AT TRAININD & ON RACE DAY: Strollers/Baby joggers and/or ANIMALS* are not permitted at group runs or in any Allianz Richmond Marathon event.
*Please reach out to info@sportsbackers.org if your animal is a certified service animal
CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY: Training Team entry fees are non-refundable and entries are non-transferable, even in the case of training/race cancellation, postponement, and/or if you are unable to participate, no exceptions. Once we receive your entry, you will not receive a refund if you cannot participate or are unable to complete the program and you will not be able to transfer your registration to another person.
DEFERRAL POLICY: You may defer your 2026 Sports Backers Half Marathon Training Team entry to the 2027 Half Marathon Training Team through September 7 for $25. After that date, there will be no more deferrals.
FREE RACE ENTRY: Your free entry in the 2026 CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, by itself, may not be deferred. It is a benefit of HMTT and cannot be separated.
DISTANCE SWITCH: If you choose to run the Capital One Richmond 8k or a virtual event, rather than the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, on November 14 you may transfers at no additional cost and as long as the cap has not been reached.
RICHMOND CHALLENGE: To participate in the Richmond Challenge, register for the Virtual Marathon & 8k. Then email info@sportsbackers.org to let us know that have registered for all three events. We will mark your registrations as part of The Challenge on our end.
Event Charity: Sports Backers Youth Programs
Sports Backers invests in the future of active living in our region through our youth programs – Kids On The Move and the Active Living Leadership ALL Stars. From the youngest kids getting an opportunity to be a part of a running or fitness club, reaping the socio-emotional benefits while moving more, to those on their way to adulthood and applying to college, Sports Backers is passionate about supporting Richmond region youth. We do this by providing the resources they need to be successful, whether that be a pair of athletic shoes for a child in need, covering the cost of bus transportation for a Kids On The Move club to attend one of our signature events, or providing leadership training and scholarships to promising student-athletes. Your donation makes it possible for us to support the most important part of our community – our kids. They are the future and we know that by investing in them and instilling healthy habits now, it benefits us all.
Fundraising: If you would like to fundraise for Sports Backers Youth Programs please email Jacki (jacki@sportsbackers.org)
Donation Discounts: A donation of at least $50 will automatically result in $20 off your in-person registration fee.
Sports Backers is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring people across the Richmond region to live actively. We believe that everyone deserves access to safe, affordable, and inclusive opportunities to walk, run, bike, and be physically active, regardless of their background or where they live.
We bring this mission to life by hosting some of the region’s most beloved participatory events, advocating for safer bike and pedestrian infrastructure, and investing in community-led fitness programs in schools and neighborhoods. Through initiatives like Fitness Warriors, Kids On The Move, and Bike Walk RVA, we work alongside community members to break down barriers to active living and create lasting change.
Each year, our work reaches tens of thousands of people and helps build a more connected, healthier, and vibrant region. From first steps to finish lines, from neighborhood sidewalks to regional trails, we are committed to making active living possible for all.
