Rocket City Marathon

Where and when is the Rocket City Marathon?

The Rocket City Marathon Weekend takes place at the Von Braun Center in downtown Huntsville, Alabama each year on the 2nd full weekend in December. 

The Rocket City 10K, 5K and 1 Mile Family Fun Run run on Saturday Morning and the Marathon and Half Marathon run on Sunday.

Can I run the marathon if I am under 18 years old?

Yes, a parent or legal guardian must register runners under 18 so the parent/guardian can sign the waiver.

Can someone else pick up my packet for me?

Yes. If you can not make it to the Expo/Packet Pick-up during official hours, a friend or family member may pick-up your packet for you.  They must present the attached form completed along with the proper IDs as noted.

Does the Marathon have pace groups?

Yes. Pacers are available for the Marathon distance only.  See this link for details

What are the slowest (and fastest) paces allowed for each race?

With multiple races starting at different times, the notion of cutoff times can be daunting. We will have different sets of sweepers for the early start and regular start, but here is a simple list of slowest pace times for each race.

Marathon Early Start (6am): 7 hour time limit = 16:01/mile

Marathon Regular Start (7am): 6 hour time limit = = 13:44/mile

Half-Marathon (9am): 4 hour time limit = 18:18/mile

10K (7am): 2 hour time limit = 19:19/mile

5K (9am): 1 hour time limit = 19:19/mile

• NOTE: Cutoff times are a reflection of roads re-opening and not having police support. If you are slower than the cutoff times, you will  need to move to the sidewalks and be careful crossing intersections. Course markings may be removed after the official sweepers so you should be prepared and know the course route. We will keep the finish line open as long as possible.

Our policy states that we do NOT offer refunds or deferrals.
You can transfer your registration, as a gift, to another runner BEFORE September 1st.  "Selling your bib" online is illegal. If you see this online it's most likely a scam.

Can I change from one race distance to another?

You can switch from one race distance to another, provided there are still open spots in the race you are transferring into BEFORE December 1st. To accomplish this transfer, sign in to your RunSignUp account, go to your profile, select Manage Registration, and then select Transfer.

How do I know for sure if I am registered?

Registered participants can be found here: https://runsignup.com/Race/FindARunner/?raceId=44733

Is this race a Boston Qualifier?

Yes! The 2025 Rocket City Marathon is a Boston qualifier for 2027.

What is NOT allowed on the course?

Baby joggers, in-line skates, bicycles, unauthorized vehicles and unregistered runners are prohibited on the course. No pets or smoking on the course PLEASE! Any participant breaking one of these rules will be removed from the course, disqualified and will not receive finisher’s amenities. These rules are due to our insurance policy and are set by the HTC Board of Directors for your safety and the safety of the other runners on the course. The use of headphones is STRONGLY discouraged. 

Where can we park for the races?

You can find the most current parking information here.

What is the “Hat Trick”?

If you register for THREE events (both the 5K, 10K and either Half or the Full Marathon) you will receive a special hat-trick hat.  (1 Mile Family Friendly Run/Walk is not applicable).