2026 Bidwell Classic
The 2026 Bidwell Classic will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026, in Chico, California, USA 95926, at the One Mile Recreation Area in Lower Bidwell Park. The event is expected to feature mild to warm weather with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 65°F, with mostly clear skies and minimal precipitation. Participants can expect a scenic route through Bidwell Park, offering a mix of flat, paved road running for the 5K and 10K, and a more challenging half marathon course that includes a small portion of single-track trail. The event caters to runners and walkers of all levels, with a focus on community, competition, and enjoyment of the natural surroundings.
What distances are available for this event?
- →5K run/walk
- →10K run/walk
- →Half marathon
What are the start times for each distance?
- →5K: 8:00 AM PST
- →10K and Half Marathon: 8:10 AM PST
What is the registration fee for each distance?
- →5K Run/Walk: $59.30 (includes $4.30 fee)
- →10K Run/Walk: $69.90 (includes $4.90 fee)
- →Half Marathon: $101.70 (includes $6.70 fee)
When does registration close for the event?
Registration closes on March 6, 2026, at 8:00 AM PST. No race-day registration is available.
What is included in the race registration?
- →Race shirt (unisex cotton shirt by Arroyo Printing)
- →Finisher medal for half marathon completers
- →Access to aid stations and restrooms
- →Chip-timed results
- →Awards and prizes for top finishers and age groups
What are the race shirt size policies?
- →Size guarantee is offered for those who register on or before February 6, 2026.
- →Post-deadline registrations receive shirts based on first-come, first-served availability at packet pickup.
What awards and prizes are offered?
- →Cash purse for top overall male and female in each distance
- →Age group awards: Top 3 males/females per category (14 & under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+)
- →Finisher medals for all half marathon completers
When are the award ceremonies held?
- →5K: 8:45 AM
- →10K: 9:15 AM
- →Half Marathon: 10:00 AM
What are the course rules for the event?
- →No dogs on course during race
- →Strollers permitted (runners exercise caution)
- →Headphones: one ear only to maintain situational awareness
- →Race bib must be worn visibly on the front
- →Be courteous to other park users; this is a public space
What aid stations are available during the event?
- →2 aid stations for 5K
- →3 aid stations for 10K
- →6 aid stations for Half Marathon
- →Aid stations located at Cedar Grove, Peterson Drive Gate, and One Mile Parking Lot (Vallombrosa side) offering water, electrolytes, and nutrition gels
What restrooms are available during the event?
- →Restrooms at start/finish, One Mile Recreation Area (pool sides), Cedar Grove Park, and Peterson Dr. entrance
What is the course terrain for each distance?
- →5K & 10K: Road (flat, paved, traffic-free)
- →Half Marathon: Mixed-terrain (primarily paved with ~1/4 mile single-track trail sections per loop)
Is there a pre-race shakeout run?
Yes, a pre-race shakeout run is scheduled for Friday, March 6, at 6:00 PM at Fleet Feet Chico, 241 Main St. The event includes a 3-6 mile run/walk with refreshments.
What is the purpose of the event?
A substantial portion of entry fees supports local high school cross country programs. Optional donations are accepted during registration.
What is the race timing system?
The event uses chip-timed results with a gun start. Overall placings are determined by gun time (first to cross the line). Timing is handled by Bizz Johnson Racing.