The Governor's Cup Road Race
- Date Fri 10th April 2026 - Sat 11th April 2026
- Time 6:15PM EDT
- Location Columbia, South Carolina
- Price $27.50 - $111.24
- Races 5 races
- Distances Half Marathon, 5km, 1 Mile
Event summary
Get ready to lace up your running shoes for The Governor's Cup Road Race, taking place from April 10th to April 11th, 2026, in the charming city of Columbia, South Carolina. Established in 1973, this iconic event has become a staple in the Southeast's racing calendar, attracting runners of all ages and abilities. The weekend is packed with exciting races, including The Main Street Mile, The Kids' Main Street Mile, the fast-paced Governor's Cup 5K, and the highlight of the event, the Governor's Cup Half Marathon.
Participants will enjoy the mild April temperatures, scenic rolling hills, and tree-lined streets, creating the perfect backdrop for achieving personal bests. With a focus on providing an exceptional experience "by runners, for runners," The Governor's Cup ensures that everyone feels like an elite athlete as they tackle their race goals. Beyond the races, attendees can indulge in delicious food, refreshing drinks, and vibrant entertainment, all while soaking in the rich culture and warm southern hospitality that Columbia has to offer. Don't miss out on this fantastic celebration of running and community!
Participants will enjoy the mild April temperatures, scenic rolling hills, and tree-lined streets, creating the perfect backdrop for achieving personal bests. With a focus on providing an exceptional experience "by runners, for runners," The Governor's Cup ensures that everyone feels like an elite athlete as they tackle their race goals. Beyond the races, attendees can indulge in delicious food, refreshing drinks, and vibrant entertainment, all while soaking in the rich culture and warm southern hospitality that Columbia has to offer. Don't miss out on this fantastic celebration of running and community!
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. $6.34 Fee & Performance Shirt Gender Neutral
Sat 11th April 2026 (7:30AM EDT)
$95.34
Start 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. $3.10 Fee & Tri Blend Gender Neutral Shirt
Sat 11th April 2026 (7:45AM EDT)
$38.10
The 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. $2.50 Fee & Tri Blend Gender Neutral Shirt
Fri 10th April 2026 (6:15PM EDT)
$27.50
Lace 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. -
Half-Marathon + 1 Mile Combo Race
Incl. $7.24 Fee & Performance Shirt Gender Neutral
Fri 10th April 2026 (6:15PM EDT)
$111.24
This 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 Neutral
Fri 10th April 2026 (6:15PM EDT)
$54.00
This 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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1100 Sumter Street, Columbia, 29201, SC, United States
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