Race Preview: 2014 Capital City Half Marathon (10k & 5k) in Salem

Hey, Salem runners (and those out of the area as well), we now have a Half Marathon to call our own! The inaugural Capital City Half Marathon is coming to town on Sunday, April 27 and will feature a 10k and 5k, in addition to the half. The race will start and finish at the Capital Fútbol Club, which is just east of Salem near the intersection of Cordon Road and State Street. The routes stick to mostly low-traffic country roads with scenery around every turn. The half marathon course  will be a loop beginning with an off-road section to start things off.  I have actually ran in this area before, and from the look of the map the first mile will be along the abandoned railroad tracks. I think this area is pretty darn neat and serene.

Runners will then battle a few miles of rolling hills and pass through farmlands and pastures on quiet country roads before returning to the finish line. The elevation map states an increase (300 total feet) between miles 2.5 and 6.5, which makes sense as the trek along Macleay Road and Howell Prairie can be challenging. The 10k course will be an out-and-back along the railroad and along Fruitland Road.  The 5k course appears to be all off-road near the railroad tracks.

A technical short sleeve shirt is included (if registered by 4/13) and all finishers will receive a medal. There is also the opportunity for a “child camp” while you run. For $10, your kiddos will have a 1.5-2.5 hour soccer camp (depending on how fast you run) that will be hosted at their soccer themed playpark area and staffed and organized by the club coaching staff, parents and soccer players.

The race will benefit the Cascade Fútbol Club (follow them on Facebook) and the current registration price is CHEAP at $40, but will go up to $55 on 4/1. So register today!

Capital City Half Marathon (Salem)

When: 9a on April 27, 2014

Where: Capital Fútbol Club (East of Salem)

Regsiter: Online here; $40 ($55 after 3/31)