Half Marathon-by-the-Sea

Don’t miss this popular half marathon on one of the prettiest courses you’ll ever run! The Ipswich Ale Half Marathon starts and finishes at beautiful Crane Beach in Ipswich, MA. Runners climb up and around the spectacular Crane Estate in the first mile - “Storming the Castle!” - before heading west on Argilla Road past open farmland, picturesque salt marshes and classic New England stone walls. The course winds through scenic neighborhoods along the Ipswich River before runners turn around and head back to Argilla Road and the final four miles to the finish line. To celebrate your race back at the beach, enjoy traditional runner recovery food, fresh pizza, grilled hot dogs and, of course, Ipswich Ale!

Hosted by the Ipswich-Rowley Rotary, the Ipswich Ale Half Marathon would not be possible without the generosity of our sponsors, partners and dozens of volunteers. Proceeds from the race are used by the Ipswich-Rowley Rotary Charitable Trust to support a number of local charities. We want to thank our principle sponsors - Ipswich Ale Brewery and the Institution for Savings - for all that they do to make this race a success. We also want to express our gratitude to the Trustees of Reservations, the Ipswich YMCA, and BankGloucester for their extensive support.

Hill to Harbor 5K & 10K Road Race

Sunday, May 17, 2026 | Race Starts 9:00 AM

Run for a Reason: Your Support Makes the Difference

Run for a reason. The Y is dedicated to ensuring everyone has access to our programming and services, from life-saving swim safety to youth development and childcare. We reinvest millions of dollars each year in financial assistance and scholarships, supporting thousands of families and individuals in the 25 communities we serve.

Your registration supports this essential mission, ensuring we can continue to help those in our community who need the Y most. Your commitment directly strengthens the Lynch/van Otterloo YMCA and the neighbors we serve every day.

Get your running shoes ready! Join us on May 17th to traverse the iconic hills and scenic shoreline of Marblehead. It’s more than a race—it’s a chance to challenge yourself on a beautiful course and finish strong at the Y in support of a life-changing mission. We can’t wait to see you at the starting line!

Race Map

Go the Extra Mile: Our Fundraising Levels

Join our mission to provide financial assistance by reaching one of our meaningful fundraising levels! Every dollar you raise supports vital Y programs in our community.The Starting Line: Registration Level. Simply signing up supports our cause and starts the transformation!

Causeway Cruiser: Raise a total of $50.

Harbor Master: Raise a total of $100.

Hill Hero: Raise a total of $250 or more to become one of our top champions!

Race Day Details

Race Start Time: 9:00 AM

Location: Lynch/van Otterloo YMCA, 40 Leggs Hill Road, Marblehead, MA, USA

Course Details: This course is stroller and dog friendly (well-behaved dogs only).

Refund Policy: All sales are final, no refunds will be offered.

Timing: Timing Provided by Bay State Race Services

Swag: Tee Shirt (unisex crew neck) first come first served while supplies last. Shirts must be picked up by the start of the race.

Parking: Free on-site parking at the Lynch/van Otterloo YMCA.

Friday Pick-up: Friday, May 15th 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Lynch Van Otterloo YMCA 40 Leggs Hill Road, Marblehead.

Race Day Pick-up: Begins at 7:30 AM at the Lynch Van Otterloo YMCA

Results, Awards & Celebration

• Results: Posted at the finish line and emailed to participants post-race.

• Overall Winners: Medals for 1st Place Male & Female.

• Age Groups: Medals for Top 3 Male & Female: 13 & under, 14–19, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, 70+.

• Open Categories: Medals for Top 3 Non-binary and Top 3 Wheelchair finishers.

• Local Honors: Special prizes for the 1st Place Male & Female Marblehead residents.

Quick Links & Resources

Discover Marblehead:

Your guide to the local business community; find the best places to shop, dine, and stay in the region.

Marblehead Chamber of Commerce

Discover Marblehead

YMCA Member Resources:

Our Y welcomes ALL. We strengthen communities, educate and nurture children, and promote healthy living in spirit, mind, and body.

YMCA of the Northshore

Upcoming YMCA Races and Community Events:

Join us for Road Races, Golf Tournaments, Galas, and other Special Events!

Fundraising and Community Events