Battleship road race routes return to familiar, popular spot
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The 2026 Parkway Subaru Battleship Half Marathon and GFL 10K will feature a course that returns runners to the Battleship North Carolina Memorial.
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The updated route brings back a course feature last used in 2019, again turning one of Wilmington’s iconic landmarks into a centerpiece of the race. The event’s 5K will remain on the downtown Wilmington side of the Cape Fear River.
The Half Marathon, 10K and 5K are scheduled for 6:45 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 15. The redesigned half marathon and 10K routes were developed with the leadership of the Battleship North Carolina Memorial.
After crossing the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, half marathon and 10K runners will enter USS North Carolina Road near mile 2, turn onto the SECU Memorial Walkway, and travel counterclockwise around the ship before exiting near mile 3. The approximately one-mile segment gives participants a 360-degree view of one of World War II’s most decorated battleships.
“This year’s course honors the history of the ship and the people who served on her,” race co-director Tom Clifford said in a news release. “Our theme, ‘Through the Heart of Wilmington for the Soul of the Ship,’ describes exactly what this race is. Runners get to run for a purpose — to honor the Battleship, those she represents, and this year’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.”
America 250 light tribute planned
In recognition of America 250, the battleship will be illuminated in red, white and blue throughout race weekend.
The ship will be lit Saturday evening as runners arrive in downtown Wilmington for packet pickup, and again on race morning at approximately 4 a.m.
The America 250 theme has been incorporated into the event logo, which will appear on race shirts, finisher medals and event signage.
Fundraising to support SECU repairs
A portion of every registration will support the SECU Memorial Walkway, which honors veterans of all branches of service and is undergoing a restoration effort. Ways to contribute beyond race participation will be announced in the future.
“The Battleship North Carolina Memorial honors the service and sacrifice of the more than 11,000 North Carolinians who gave their lives during World War II, the 10,000 men who served aboard USS North Carolina, and all who have worn our nation’s uniform,” said Dr. Jay Martin, executive director of the Battleship North Carolina Memorial in the release. “Circling the Battleship on the SECU Memorial Walkway gives runners a chance to reflect on the service and sacrifice of veterans from every branch of the military, who served in conflicts around the world. We are honored to partner in an event that fosters community, encourages remembrance, and helps preserve this Memorial as a place where future generations can connect with the stories and legacy of those who served.”
Registration open
Registration for all races is open, with organizers targeting more than 3,000 runners across all distances.
Runners 21 and older will be welcomed at the finish line with beer from Heineken. The event will also feature finisher medals presented by Parkway Subaru, water from Culligan and food provided by Harris Teeter. For more information, go to its-go-time.com or runsignup.com.
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This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Wilmington Battleship Half-Marathon course returns to USS North Carolina