Connecticut may be small, but it plays with the big kids when it comes to marathons and half marathons. The “Constitution State” is home to some of the nations best races. It’s old time sea ports and whale exhibits will make for beautiful scenery while you run through this great state.
Nutmeg State Half Marathon – Washington
The Nutmeg State Marathon and Half Marathon are part of the New England Challenge which includes six races, in six New England states, in six days. There is only one aid station on the course at the start/finish line, but given that the loop is so short (a little over 2 miles), many runners did not have a problem with this. Claim your spot here.
The Course
This marathon is held at Goodwin Park Golf Course and is chip timed. The Nutmeg State Half Marathon can be described as a loop however, there is a short out-and-back section at the start of the course. All in all, there are 6 laps of 2.13 miles around Goodwin Park (a golf course). While running this race, you won’t need to be concerned about counting your own laps because race officials are stationed to do just that!
Credit: MapMyRun
“This race was well organized and super friendly! The course was a beautiful park/golf course asphalt trail. There was a great variety of food and drink like in an Ultra. The absence of time limit made it comfortable for those of us who are slower. Incredibly convenient parking & port-a-potties.”- M.L., Marathonguide.com
“If you’re into small town laid back races this is the marathon for you! Ran this race as part of the full 5 day New England challenge. Super friendly RD, beautiful course, fully stocked aid stations, highly recommend !!!”-T.B., Marathonguide.com
Savin’ Rock Half Marathon – West Haven
Once called the Sharks Shoreline Half Marathon, it was renamed the Savin’ Rock Half Marathon in 2011. The race features great post-race food, a goodie bag, tech shirt, custom finisher’s medals, and award medals. Around 200 to 300 people compete in the race each year. Get registered here.
The Course
The Savin’ Rock Half Marathon course will take runners along the Connecticut Long Island Sound shoreline. The course follows an out-and-back course then takes runners on a counter-clockwise loop through West Haven which is largely a residential area with some city parks. Runners will get to run along the shore line for the last stretch of the race. Savin’ Rocks is a relatively flat race with a total gain of 132 feet for the entire race.
Credit: MapMyRun
Reviews
”What a race!!! Great people, beautiful, tough course, kind and enthusiastic folks at aid stations, and a super friendly, fun race director. Couldn’t ask for more.”-Shira Flowers, Facebook.com
“This race was a fantastic experience. I did this race last year too in the snow. The organizers care about every detail from the 20 police on the course to the hundreds of volunteers at the aid stations with GU, Gatorade and water. Portolets every 6 miles. The course has hills in the middle but a smart runner can handle it. Awesome shirts, awards, medals. Food and a nice indoor spot was a nice adder. See you next year!”-K.D., Marathonguide.com
Eversource Hartford Half Marathon
Hartford is arguably one of the most beautiful places to be during the fall with the foliage in full transition and the crisp cool weather. The Eversource Half partners with several official charities. These charities include organizations such as: Fidelco Guide Dogs, Hospital for Special Care, The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, Donate Life of Connecticut, and many more!
According to the race website, the Hartford Marathon’s and Half Marathon’s most important race is the race against hunger. They ask that when you arrive for this race that you bring some nonperishable food items to give to Foodshare of Greater Hartford. This race is a nonprofit organization that strives to provide health and fitness opportunities to the community and to date has collected over $5 million for charity.
The Course
The Eversource Hartford Half Marathon course is USATF certified and is a qualifier for the Olympic Trials. For the most part, this course is fairly fast and flat as far as “back East” races are concerned; however, there are a few notable hills on some of the country roads. The race starts with an out-and-back section followed by a loop through the city and across Founder’s Bridge. From there, the course follows the river under the shade of Maple and Birch trees on a paved path.
Credit: MapMyRun
Reviews
“This is a GREAT race. The start is a little chaotic, but that adds to the fun! I ran the half, and after mile 1, we split from the full. The half course took us through West Hartford and lovely Elizabeth Park. There were ample water stations. All of the volunteers were very friendly and helpful. This race is a definitely worth running!”- B.D., Marathonguide.com
“The course is mainly flat with a few gentle gradients which are welcome. Long out-and-back section in a very nice residential area with great support. Weather was perfect, which cannot be guaranteed every year!”- A.G., Marathonguide.com
Colchester Half Marathon
The Colchester Half Marathon is located about 25 miles southeast of Hartford and only 25 miles from the Atlantic coast; what’s more, this race takes place in late February. That being said, it is not uncommon for freshly fallen snow, sleet, or even ice to be present on the course so if you are planning on taking on this challenge be sure that you are dressed warm and make sure your shoes have good traction and you have good socks to keep your tootsies toasty. Check it out here.
The Course
The Colchester Half follows a USATF certified loop that both starts and finishes at the Bacon Academy. The majority of the race takes place on paved country roads; however, there is about a three mile section of the race that happens on dirt roads. The Colchester Half is known for being a fairly hilly race and you will be sure to get a good workout as you climb the many rolling hills that make up the Connecticut countryside. This part of the country sees its heaviest amount of snowfall this time of year so be prepared for some cold and slushy conditions.
Credit: MapMyRun
“Second year of running the course and got a PB shaving 2m40s off my fastest time from last year. Great course, very well organised, marshals were greatly encouraging and the fact that the people of Colchester came out to cheer throughout was greatly appreciated and helped make the atmosphere brilliant! Thank you!”-Matthew Brown, Facebook.com
“The spectator support in the pouring rain blew my mind! I knew running your born & bred town would be fun, but out of the 5 half marathons I have done Colchester is now my favourite. The t-shirt, medal and goody bag were all high quality and you actually won me over on the free safety pins (you’d be surprise how many other races do not think of that). Thank you to all the helpers and organisers. I WILL see you next year!”-Josephine Johnson, Facebook.com