This is a small race, but the organizers did a nice job putting on the event. The trail running along the water is very nice, but with the number of … MORE
This is a small race, but the organizers did a nice job putting on the event. The trail running along the water is very nice, but with the number of participants at times it was difficult to run any other pace than theirs. The course does generally loop around on itself a number of times. I enjoyed running the bridges. The after race food was average and the t-shirt was not much. The medal is neat with the capital building on it.
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Nice Riverfront Race
This is a small race, but the organizers did a nice job putting on the event. The trail running along the water is very nice, but with the number of … MORE
This is a small race, but the organizers did a nice job putting on the event. The trail running along the water is very nice, but with the number of participants at times it was difficult to run any other pace than theirs. The course does generally loop around on itself a number of times. I enjoyed running the bridges. The after race food was average and the t-shirt was not much. The medal is neat with the capital building on it.
Great small race
The Harrisburg Half is great race to go to if you're looking for small field size and prefer not a lot of frills. This year, packet pickup was offered at … MORE
The Harrisburg Half is great race to go to if you’re looking for small field size and prefer not a lot of frills. This year, packet pickup was offered at two running stores in the area and the day of the race.
City Island has plenty of parking with most of it being close to the start/ finish line. Aid stations were stocked with small, 7 oz water bottles. Nothing else was offered so make sure to bring your own drink mix and race nutrition if that’s what you prefer.
Most of the course was along Riverfront Park. There were many opportunities to admire the Susquehanna River. Volunteers were at every turn to make sure runners went the correct way. They were very helpful!
Post race, there are some snacks available near the finish line in a covered area with plenty of seating.
This is a great no frills race if you’re running your first half or want to get in some training.
NOTE: This year the course was not USATF certified because of year-to-year course changes and construction in the city.
Mostly flat run by the river
Parking very close to the start / finish. Not a lot of hills. The course was mostly flat along a paved trail overlooking the river. It was a little humid … MORE
Parking very close to the start / finish. Not a lot of hills. The course was mostly flat along a paved trail overlooking the river. It was a little humid during the race but posted a decent time. Post race party was nice.
Flat, good, small race
I've run the Harrisburg Half several years. In 2015 it was moved from a fall date to summer. We were lucky to have a mild temperature day. It has since … MORE
I’ve run the Harrisburg Half several years. In 2015 it was moved from a fall date to summer. We were lucky to have a mild temperature day. It has since been moved back to fall. I think there was a lot of (negative) feedback about the summer date.
This is a small race. You can pick up your packet before race day or same day. Parking is easy, as the race starts on City Island and there is ample parking. They have nice brushed, soft cotton t-shirts. No other frills though and no expo.
The course is flat and fast. You could plan on a PR for this course. It is run along the riverfront, through the city and a short portion on a crushed gravel trail. There are lots of places for family to see runners, although the overall crowd support is moderate (at best).
Post race food is good, typical fare of drinks, bagels, cookies, fruit, coffee, etc. Medals are nice, not fancy, but not cheap, generic medals either.
If you like a basic, well run race, a flat course and easy logistics, this is a race to consider.