2026 will be an exciting year for local runners
MADISON – Runners should have a bonanza-type year in 2026 with races each month on the schedule ranging from events in the dead of winter, to the scorching heat and humidity of summer in the South. In conjunction with the Huntsville Sports Commission, Huntsville Track Club and Fleet Feet Sports of Huntsville-Decatur, the newest year will feature races of all distances, many of which will be associated with charities and fundraisers.
Events in the first half of the year schedule includes the certified Valentine’s Day Fleet Feet Love to Run, Feb. 14, 8:00 a.m., an exciting 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run held at Madison’s Palmer Park; March 28, 7:00 a.m. Run the Cove Half Marathon & 10K set to be held at the Hampton Cove and Flint River Greenways; and the first of what hopes to be annual race event called Sunrise Over Cecil 10K.
The City of Huntsville will be hosting this race on Cecil Ashburn Drive beginning at 6:00 a.m. The connection between Southeast Huntsville with Hampton Cove will be closed to travel, so the runners will have full access for the 10K race. One of Huntsville’s most breathtaking views awaits runners at the top of Cecil Ashburn Drive.
This race will challenge athletes with Alabama’s toughest 10K, featuring stunning views of the city and an unforgettable sunrise. The certified 10K course packs nearly 1,000 feet of elevation gain and descent into 6.2 demanding miles. With roads closed to through traffic, runners can focus on the climb, the descent, and the epic scenery along the way. This is a race for those who love hills, grit, and unforgettable views.
The remainder of the year is filled with races that can satisfy the taste of any runners. The most popular races on the schedule feature Cotton Row Run (May 25, 7:00 a.m.), Rocketman Triathlon (Aug. 30, 7:00 a.m.), Liz Hurley Ribbon Run for breast cancer (Oct. 17, 8:30 a.m.), Huntsville Half Marathon (Nov. 14, 8:00 a.m.) and Rocket City Marathon Weekend (Dec. 11-13).
There are numerous sites on-line which can direct any runner of experience or talent level.
