Race Against the Train
The Community Health Resources (CHR) annual CHR Steam Train Half Marathon and 2-person relay starts at the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat in CT and is the only half marathon in the country where runners try to outrun a century-old Steam Train. Friends and family members board the train at the start and leave the station at the race start. They will head to Deep River Landing to cheer on runners at the halfway point before both Train and runners return to the station and the finish line. Who will get there first?
This event is a fun-filled family event that everyone can have the opportunity to participate in.
All runners receive a package of great swag, including an event tee shirt and finishers medal.
Join us for a post-race celebration at Surfridge Brewing Company, located right next to the Essex Steam Train! Doors will open at 10 a.m. Surfridge will offer its full brunch menu, in addition to a Steam Train special.
Proceeds from the event will benefit Community Health Resources (CHR), Connecticut’s most comprehensive behavioral healthcare agency, and three local nonprofits: the Deep River Fire Department, Essex Public Library, and The Nest/A Little Compassion Inc.
Awards
- Commemorative Medals for all Half Marathon Finishers
- Awards for the Overall Male, Female, and Non-Binary Finishers
- Awards for the top three Half Marathon Finishers in the following age groups: 19 and Under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80+
- Awards for the Top Relay Teams in each Category
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Fun Race Theme
This is a relatively smalll race in Essex, CT located along the Connecticut River. The course starts and finishes at the Essex Steam Train depot. The race is train themed … MORE
This is a relatively smalll race in Essex, CT located along the Connecticut River. The course starts and finishes at the Essex Steam Train depot. The race is train themed and you “race” the train. Both runners and the train start at the same time and if you return before the steam train (2hr 20min), you get a train whistle in addition to your finisher’s medal. I did have 2 misconceptions – one that we would be running close to the train or at least see if from time to time (you do not) and two I thought it would be a flatter course than it was (it was not). You only see the train at the start/finish and the course is pretty rolling with some steeper parts but the scenery along the river is beautiful even on the gloomy chilly day of the race.
But overall well organized except they need more water stops. The brewery next to the depot hosts the after party. Lots to do in the area if you are traveling and fun place to take your family because they can ride on the train while you run.
Race a Steam Train!
Fun local race. Can do the half or a relay. Relay is not split halfway but 8 miles then 5 miles. Train takes and picks up relayers. Beautiful scenery and … MORE
Fun local race. Can do the half or a relay. Relay is not split halfway but 8 miles then 5 miles. Train takes and picks up relayers. Beautiful scenery and rolling hills, one killer hill at mile 10-11. Not many water stops and if the day had been hot I think this would have been a problem. Also no info on water stops or bathrooms on the course. Great after party at local brewery at same location as race start.
Nice Small Race
Small, hometown vibe race. Smaller race field with the last finisher being shortly after 3 hours, so if you're a Back of the Pack Runner just be prepared for that. … MORE
Small, hometown vibe race. Smaller race field with the last finisher being shortly after 3 hours, so if you’re a Back of the Pack Runner just be prepared for that. They have a trail vehicle and a very well marked course. The “race the train” is a great option for faster runners or for spectators.
A beautiful challenging half!
The race is much hillier than I anticipated, basically the whole course is challenging. Especially, miles 10-13, real mental challenge And you get to race a steam train!! MORE
The race is much hillier than I anticipated, basically the whole course is challenging. Especially, miles 10-13, real mental challenge And you get to race a steam train!!