2026 My Better Half Marathon
The 2026 My Better Half Marathon takes place on Sunday, February 8, 2026, in the Seward Park area of Seattle, Washington. The event features a road course utilizing paved park roads and a multi-use path along Lake Washington. Participants can expect an early, short but steep hill on the first portion of each lap, followed by flat running along the lakeshore for the remainder of the distance. The weather in Seattle during early February typically features cool temperatures, often ranging from the mid-30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit, with a moderate chance of rain or mist; runners should prepare for damp and cool conditions.
What is the event name and date?
The event is the 2026 My Better Half Marathon, scheduled for Sunday, February 8, 2026.
What are the start times and course closure times?
- →All distances start between 8:00 AM and 8:10 AM PST.
- →All courses close at 12:00 PM.
Where is the event located?
The event takes place at the Seward Park / Lake Washington Blvd area, specifically 5902 Lake Washington Blvd S, Seattle, WA 98118.
What distances are offered?
- →Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
- →Half Marathon Relay (2 people)
- →10K
- →5K
What are the age requirements for participants?
- →Half Marathon: 12 years and older
- →10K, 5K, and Relay: 8 years and older
What is the course surface and type?
The event is a road race held on paved park roads and the Lake Washington lakeside path. It is not a trail or mixed-terrain event.
What is the general course profile?
Each course features a short but steep hill early in the race. After this initial climb, the running is mostly flat along the lake shoreline.
What is the environment and scenery like?
The courses are out-and-back style loops along the shore of Lake Washington, offering frequent lake views and urban park surroundings.
How is the Half Marathon and Relay course structured?
- →Layout: The course consists of 2 laps totaling 13.1 miles.
- →Lap 1: 6.9 miles featuring a steep but quick hill early on.
- →Lap 2: 6.2 miles described as "nice and flat."
- →Relay Exchange: Two-person teams exchange in the park gazebo just before the finish. One runner does one lap and the other does the other lap.
How are the 10K and 5K courses structured?
- →10K: 2 laps totaling 6.2 miles. The first lap is 3.7 miles with some hills at the beginning; the second lap is 2.5 miles and flat.
- →5K: Single 3.1-mile loop with a quick steep hill at the start, followed by mostly flat terrain on the return.
What aid and support is provided on course?
Aid stations are located roughly every 2–3 miles. They provide Tailwind, gels, and water. The event is cupless, so participants are expected to bring their own bottle or collapsible cup.
What is included with registration?
- →Long-sleeve 1/4-zip shirt
- →Finisher medal
- →Hot post-race oatmeal
- →Free race photos
How much does registration cost?
- →Half Marathon: $91
- →10K: $58
- →5K: $58
- →Relay: $67 per person
Note: Prices are expected to increase after January 31, 2026.
What charity benefits from the event?
Proceeds support Rebuilding Together Seattle, an organization focused on home repair and community revitalization.