Thanksgiving Distance Classic Half Marathon & 5K
Jacksonville, FL
- Half Marathon, 5K, 1 Miler
- Road (Paved)
- Official race website
The Thanksgiving Distance Classic started in 1984 with 500 runners in the half marathon. The shorter distance races were not offered until later. The half marathon course was point to point the first year. The race started at Flynn Park and finished at Pickwick Park Shopping Center, which is still … MORE
Local Historical Weather (Nov 26):
| 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |
| H (°F) | 79 | 77 | 66 | 74 | 66 |
| L (°F) | 65 | 52 | 58 | 64 | 53 |
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Fast, flat and simple
This is a popular local "classic" race for over 40 years. It is combined with a 5K with far more runners than the half. Usually they all start together, but … MORE
This is a popular local “classic” race for over 40 years. It is combined with a 5K with far more runners than the half. Usually they all start together, but this year the organizers wisely separated the start time of both races. It was a good idea but poorly executed. A lot of people picking up bibs on race day. Unfortunately, the race director trying to make the lines move faster made things far worse. He pushed half marathoners to the back of the bib pick up line, but then started the half before the 5K, opposite to what was in the instructions. It was chaotic and confusing to say the least.
Nonetheless, once you get started everything else went smooth. Weather was excellent. The course is easy thru well maintained wide paved neighborhood roads. Markers with timers at every mile. Water and electrolyte stations at about every 2 miles. Volunteers were great as always. Good quality long sleeve shirts as part of the swag.
Fun Thanksgiving Day Race
Flat course along paved roads though quiet neighborhoods in Mandarin, Florida. The route has some stretches of picturesque roadways under large tree canopies. Race day check-in makes it convenient for … MORE
Flat course along paved roads though quiet neighborhoods in Mandarin, Florida. The route has some stretches of picturesque roadways under large tree canopies. Race day check-in makes it convenient for out-of-town runners to register and race without having to be in town the day before Thanksgiving. Plenty of parking across the street if you arrive early. Lots of runners so there is always someone to run with or try to catch. Great long sleeve technical shirt this year and fun Thanksgiving day themed race medal.