The Governor's Cup
- Date Fri 10th April 2026 - Sat 11th April 2026
- Time 6:15PM EDT
- Location Columbia, South Carolina
- Price Free - $111.24
- Races 6 races
- Distances Half Marathon, 5km, 1 Mile
Event summary
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend at The Governor's Cup, taking place from April 10th to 11th, 2026, in the charming city of Columbia, Richland. Since its inception in 1973, this prestigious event has become a highlight on the Southeast's racing calendar. Runners of all ages can look forward to an exciting lineup of races, including The Main Street Mile, The Kids' Main Street Mile, the thrilling Governor's Cup 5K, and the crowning jewel of the weekend, the Governor's Cup Half Marathon.
With mild April temperatures and scenic, tree-lined streets, Columbia offers the perfect backdrop for achieving personal bests. Participants will experience a race organized "by runners, for runners," ensuring that everyone feels valued and energized as they pursue their goals. Beyond the races, attendees can indulge in delicious local food and drink, enjoy vibrant entertainment, and soak up the welcoming southern hospitality that Columbia is known for. Mark your calendars and join us for a weekend filled with fun, culture, and community spirit at The Governor's Cup!
With mild April temperatures and scenic, tree-lined streets, Columbia offers the perfect backdrop for achieving personal bests. Participants will experience a race organized "by runners, for runners," ensuring that everyone feels valued and energized as they pursue their goals. Beyond the races, attendees can indulge in delicious local food and drink, enjoy vibrant entertainment, and soak up the welcoming southern hospitality that Columbia is known for. Mark your calendars and join us for a weekend filled with fun, culture, and community spirit at The Governor's Cup!
Organiser's Description
Established in 1973, The Governor's Cup is one of the most prestigious and longest-running road races in the Southeast. Hosted in the historic city of Columbia, SC, the weekend includes The Main Street Mile, The Kids' Main Street Mile, Governor's Cup 5K and (the main event) The Governor's Cup Half Marathon. The city boasts mild April temperatures, rolling hills and tree-covered streets that all lead to fast race times. The races are organized "by runners, for runners" and participants get the elite treatment as they smash their race goals. Great food, drink, entertainment, culture and southern hospitality are all served in generous portions at The Governor's Cup.
Races
-
Half Marathon
Incl. $4.54 Fee & Tri Blend Gender Specific
Sat 11th April 2026 (7:30AM EDT)
$63.54
OPENS 31 AUGStart at the State House and run the historic and scenic districts of Columbia. The course is a mixture of vibrant urban, charming historic and peaceful tree-lined neighborhoods. The course features rolling hills and is great for first-timers as well as seasoned runners looking for fast finish times. -
5k
Incl. $2.50 Fee & Tri Blend T-Shirt
Sat 11th April 2026 (7:45AM EDT)
$27.50
OPENS 31 AUGThe 3.1 mile race will wind through the tree covered, downtown streets of Columbia. Runners will be treated to sights of the Township Theatre, Finlay Park and the Governors Mansion. The course is relatively flat with a fast finish to Columbias Vista. -
Main Street Mile
Incl. $2.20 Fee & T-Shirt
Fri 10th April 2026 (6:15PM EDT)
$22.20
OPENS 31 AUGLace up your track shoes and run your best mile through the Heart of the Capital City! Elite runners and the regions fastest will compete on the down-and-back course that starts at Laurel with a turnaround at Lady. Stick around for the art, live entertainment, cultural events, shopping and some of the greatest foodie hotspots in Columbia. -
Kids' Main Street Mile
Incl. T-Shirt
Fri 10th April 2026 (6:30PM EDT)
Free
OPENS 14 JAN 26Possibly the most joyful and energetic event of the weekend! Main Street will be filled with kids experiencing the joy of running/walking the iconic course through the heart of the city. All Midlands children age 14 and under are eligible to participate. -
Half-Marathon + 1 Mile Combo Race
Incl. $7.24 Fee & Tri Blend Gender Specific
Fri 10th April 2026 (6:15PM EDT)
$111.24
OPENS 08 JAN 26This is a discounted price offered to those who chose to complete the Half-Marathon and the 1-Mile race. You will only receive one race shirt at packet pick-up. -
5K + 1 Mile Combo Race
Incl. $4.00 Fee & Tri Blend Gender Specific
Fri 10th April 2026 (6:15PM EDT)
$54.00
OPENS 08 JAN 26This is a discounted price offered to those who chose to complete the Half-Marathon and the 1-Mile race. You will only receive one race shirt at packet pick-up.
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