The 2026 Oak Ridge to Kingston Express Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, March 1, 2026, in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA, with the race starting at 22 N. Jefferson Circle. On this date, the weather in Oak Ridge is expected to be mild with temperatures ranging from 38°F to 48°F, with partly cloudy conditions and minimal precipitation. The event features a high-performance format, designed for serious runners seeking Boston Marathon qualification. Participants will navigate a certified out-and-back marathon course and a point-to-point half marathon course, both along Oak Ridge Turnpike. The marathon course includes a recorded halfway split, while the half marathon requires participants to arrange their own return transportation to the start. The race is structured with strict time limits, no amenities provided, and specific rules regarding equipment and attire.
What distances are available for this event?
→Marathon (26.2 miles)
→Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
What is the registration fee for the event?
→O2K Marathon: $64.60 (includes $4.60 fee)
→O2K Half Marathon: $59.30 (includes $4.30 fee)
What are the start and finish times for the event?
→Both the marathon and half marathon start at 6:30 AM EST and finish by 11:00 AM EST
What is the participation cap for the event?
→The event has a total participation cap of 50 runners, based on first-registered basis
What are the cut-off times for the event?
→Half Marathon: 2 hours and 5 minutes
→Marathon: 4 hours
What are the race conditions for the event?
→Low-profile, performance-focused format
→No shirts, awards, or amenities provided
→Course open to light vehicular traffic; runners use bike lane/shoulder
→Headphones prohibited
→First 30 minutes in darkness under street lighting
→Required: High-visibility clothing, reflective gear, and headlamp/flashlight until daylight
What aid stations are available on the course?
→Marathon: Aid stations at miles 3, 7, 11 (outbound), and 15, 19, 23 (marathon only)
→Half Marathon: Aid stations at miles 3, 7, 11 (outbound)
What is the course certification status?
→The marathon course is USATF Certified (Code: TN21010MS), valid for Boston Marathon qualification
What is the course format for the marathon?
→Out-and-back on Oak Ridge Turnpike
→Total elevation gain: Less than 600 ft
→Route: Starts on N. Jefferson Circle, turns onto Jefferson Avenue, then Oak Ridge Turnpike, and returns via the same route
What is the course format for the half marathon?
→Point-to-point along highway with bike lane/shoulder
→Total elevation gain: Less than 400 ft
→Route: Starts on N. Jefferson Circle, turns onto Jefferson Avenue, then Oak Ridge Turnpike, and continues on Turnpike (one-way route)
What is the packet pickup schedule?
→Packet pickup is available on race day, beginning at 4:45 AM
What are the requirements for Boston Marathon qualification?
→The marathon course is certified for Boston Marathon qualification
→Official Boston Marathon Qualifying Standards apply
Are there any exceptions to the participation cap?
→Exceptions may be granted for slightly over-standard qualifying times or special requests; contact race directors for consideration
