Allianz Richmond Marathon Sells Out for Third Consecutive Year, Achieving Fastest Sellout in Event History

June 15, 2026

CarMax Richmond Half Marathon and Capital One Richmond 8k to follow fast-paced registration trend

RICHMOND, VA (June 15, 2026) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – The Allianz Richmond Marathon crossed another major milestone by racing to the finish line months ahead of schedule. America’s Friendliest Marathon is celebrating a third consecutive sellout and will be welcoming 7,200 participants to the marathon start line on Saturday, November 14, as part of the Allianz Richmond Marathon weekend, which additionally features the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon and Capital One Richmond 8k.

The sellout continues a remarkable period of growth for Richmond’s signature race weekend. Following last year’s historic full-event sellout, organizers reallocated 1,000 participant spots from the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon to the Allianz Richmond Marathon to better align with growing demand for the 26.2-mile distance. The adjustment maintains overall event capacity while also creating a more balanced flow of finishers, enhancing the race-day and finish festival experience for participants. Even with the expanded marathon field, all available entries have now been claimed months ahead of race day.

“We knew excitement for this year’s race would be strong, but seeing the marathon sell out this quickly is incredible,” said Meghan Keogh, Race Director of the Allianz Richmond Marathon. “The national running boom continues, and it’s amazing to see how Richmond has carved out a spot among some of the nation’s most beloved races. We know the Richmond community will deliver another indescribable race day experience for this group of runners, and we can’t wait to see how the event continues to evolve leading into our 50th anniversary event in 2027. We’re thrilled to welcome another sold-out field this November.”

Attention now shifts to the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon and Capital One Richmond 8k, both of which are experiencing strong registration momentum and are expected to follow a similar trajectory. The half marathon, currently at 65% capacity, is on pace to sell out before the end of summer, potentially even before the start of the Sports Backers Half Marathon Training Team in August. Organizers also anticipate another sellout for the Capital One Richmond 8k, which is 25% full.

Each November, the Allianz Richmond Marathon weekend transforms the city into a celebration of movement, perseverance, and community spirit. Participants travel from across the country and around the world to experience Richmond’s scenic course, enthusiastic crowd support, and welcoming atmosphere. Along the route, neighborhoods come alive with live music, cheer stations, themed parties, and thousands of spectators who create one of the most memorable race-day experiences in the country.

The event has earned a reputation as one of the nation’s premier marathon weekends, attracting first-time runners, seasoned veterans, and athletes pursuing a Boston Marathon qualifying time. At the same time, it serves as a showcase for Richmond’s vibrant culture, historic neighborhoods, and passionate running community.

Runners still hoping to take part in the full marathon can join a waiting list. Those on the list will be notified if a spot becomes available and will have to complete their registration within the allotted time. As an added benefit, waitlist members will be among the first to learn when registration opens for the 50th running of the Richmond Marathon. The list will remain open until October 30, the deadline for switching distances and deferrals.

Sports Backers Youth Programs, the official charity of the Allianz Richmond Marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, and Richmond 8k, has a limited number of charity entries available. Fundraisers registering for a marathon bib commit to raising $750 in support of Kids On The Move and Active Living Leadership ALL Stars and, in return, receive a complimentary entry into the full marathon on November 14, 2026. Charity entries are first-come, first-serve.

Registration for the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon and Capital One Richmond 8k is still available. For more information on registration, charity entries, and race weekend, visit www.richmondmarathon.org.

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About Sports Backers
With a key message of Let’s Go, RVA, the mission of Sports Backers is to inspire people to live actively. A nonprofit organization, Sports Backers is dedicated to producing nationally recognized quality sporting events and programs that motivate residents and visitors alike to be more active, supporting youth running and fitness programs, and advocating for safe and connected networks of bike and pedestrian infrastructure. Learn more at sportsbackers.org