2025 Rocket City Marathon
The 2025 Rocket City Marathon takes place on Saturday, December 13 and Sunday, December 14 in Huntsville, Alabama, a city renowned for its space and aerospace heritage. December in Huntsville typically experiences mild to cool temperatures, with average highs around 55°F (13°C) and lows near 40°F (4°C). Participants should anticipate possible rain, as December averages about 5 inches of precipitation, and may encounter overcast skies or occasional drizzle during race day. The event offers multiple race distances across two days, including a certified Boston Marathon qualifier course, with various start times and support systems designed to accommodate runners of different experience levels and abilities.
What race distances are offered at the Rocket City Marathon?
- →Marathon (7:00 AM CST start on Sunday, December 14)
- →Early Start Marathon (6:00 AM CST start on Sunday, December 14)
- →Half Marathon (9:00 AM CST start on Sunday, December 14)
- →10K (7:00 AM CST start on Saturday, December 13)
- →5K (9:00 AM CST start on Saturday, December 13)
- →1 Mile Family-Friendly Run/Walk (10:15 AM CST start on Saturday, December 13)
- →Virtual Marathon (complete on your own schedule)
- →Virtual Half Marathon (complete on your own schedule)
What are the time limits for each race distance?
- →Marathon: 6 hours (7 hours for early start option)
- →Half Marathon: 4 hours
- →10K: 2 hours
- →5K: 1 hour
- →1 Mile Family Run/Walk: 30 minutes
How much does registration cost for each distance?
- →Marathon: $135 + $9.10 fee
- →Early Start Marathon: $135 + $9.10 fee
- →Half Marathon: $95 + $6.70 fee
- →10K: $55 + $4.30 fee
- →5K: $45 + $3.70 fee
- →1 Mile Family Run/Walk: $25 + $2.50 fee
- →Virtual Marathon: $65 + $4.90 fee
- →Virtual Half Marathon: $65 + $4.90 fee
When do registration prices increase?
All in-person race distances have price increases effective after November 23, 2025. The 1 Mile Family Run/Walk registration closes on November 30, 2025, while virtual race registrations close on December 4, 2025.
What is included in race registration?
- →Access to the certified, Boston Marathon qualifier course
- →Pacers provided for marathon and half marathon distances
- →Finisher medals and long sleeve shirts
- →Packet pickup and race expo access during the pre-race weekend
- →Results and photos posted after the event
- →Spectator medals available for purchase
What is the Hat Trick Challenge?
The Hat Trick Challenge is a multi-race combination option that allows participants to register for multiple race distances as part of a special package offering.
When is the event schedule across the two days?
Saturday, December 13, 2025:
- →10K: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM CST
- →5K: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM CST
- →1 Mile Family Run/Walk: 10:15 AM – 10:45 AM CST
Sunday, December 14, 2025:
- →Early Start Marathon: 6:00 AM CST start
- →Marathon: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM CST
- →Half Marathon: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM CST
Are pacers available during the races?
Yes, pacers are provided for the marathon and half marathon distances to help participants maintain their target race pace.
What special programs are available for families and children?
The RCM Kids program is available, which includes a mileage log to track children's participation and progress throughout the event.
What weather conditions should participants expect in December in Huntsville?
Huntsville experiences mild to cool December temperatures with average highs around 55°F (13°C) and lows near 40°F (4°C). The month typically receives approximately 5 inches of precipitation, so participants should prepare for possible rain, overcast skies, or drizzle. Runners are advised to dress in layers and consider weather-appropriate gear for cool, potentially wet conditions.
What course certification does the Rocket City Marathon hold?
The Rocket City Marathon course is certified and qualifies for the Boston Marathon, indicating that it meets official distance and route standards recognized by major marathon organizations.
What information is available about the pre-race expo and packet pickup?
Packet pickup and the race expo occur during the pre-race weekend prior to the event. Specific times and location details for these activities are available through the event organizers.
Are volunteer opportunities available at the event?
Yes, volunteer opportunities are available for those interested in supporting the Rocket City Marathon. Additionally, a Kids program is offered for younger participants.
What happens after the race?
Following the event, race photos and official results are posted for participant access. The event also emphasizes its philanthropic impact, with information about charitable contributions available through the organizers.