2026 Sledgehammer Beach Run

The 2026 Sledgehammer Beach Run will take place on April 11, 2026, in North Topsail Beach, North Carolina, United States. The event is held at 2950 Island Drive, along the scenic coastline of North Topsail Beach. On this date, the weather in N Topsail Beach is expected to be mild with temperatures ranging between 60°F and 70°F, and predominantly sunny skies. Participants can expect to run on soft or packed sand, offering a unique and physically demanding experience along the beach. The course features open ocean views and is entirely flat, making it a challenging yet memorable race for runners of all levels. The Half Marathon has a 4-hour cutoff, after which runners will be picked up by staff and disqualified from awards.

What distances are available for this event?

• →5K race starting at 8:00 AM
• →10K race starting at 8:30 AM
• →Half Marathon starting at 9:00 AM

What is the course like?

All three distances — the Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K — are run entirely on the sand along North Topsail Beach. The surface is soft or packed, and the course offers open ocean views. The flat terrain is physically demanding and presents a unique challenge compared to a typical road race.

What is the Half Marathon cutoff time?

The Half Marathon has a 4-hour cutoff. Runners still on the course after the 4-hour mark will be picked up by staff and disqualified from awards.

Who hosts the event?

The event is hosted by the Jacksonville-Onslow Sports Commission. It is held in memory of Dr. E.B. Sledge, a Marine and WWII veteran, and a portion of the proceeds benefits Semper Fi & America's Fund, which supports wounded, ill, and injured service members and their families.

Is the event held rain or shine?

Yes, the event is held rain or shine and will not be cancelled due to weather conditions.

What is included in registration?

T-shirts are not included in registration and must be purchased separately via the race store. They can be picked up at packet pickup or shipped for virtual participants.

What is the schedule for the parking shuttle?

A parking shuttle is available at Beach Access #31 — 4030 Island Drive, North Topsail Beach. The shuttle runs from 7:15 AM to 8:00 AM to the start, and resumes from the finish from 9:00 AM to 12:45 PM. The last shuttle departs at 8:00 AM sharp, and participants are advised not to miss it.

What is the event's purpose?

The Sledgehammer Beach Run is held in memory of Dr. E.B. Sledge, a Marine and WWII veteran. A portion of the proceeds supports Semper Fi & America's Fund, which assists wounded, ill, and injured service members and their families.