12 running events in Columbia, South Carolina
From big races to Saturday morning group runs—find running events and connect with the local endurance sports community.
Columbia
12 events in Columbia-
Sun, Feb 01, 2026 at 6:00 AMSee full details
Choose one month, 3 months, or 5 months of coaching based on what works best for you and your goals.
With over 20 years dedicated to the sport of distance running, Coach Trey McCain brings a wealth of experience and passion to his coaching practice. His journey began with remarkable success in high school, contributing to two state championship programs in both Missouri and South Carolina. Continuing his athletic career at Mars Hill University in North Carolina from 2007 to 2011, Coach Trey earned accolades including All-Conference and All-Region honors in Cross Country, as well as excelling on the track in the 10,000 meters. Notably, he played a pivotal role in securing four consecutive conference titles for Mars Hill and three team berths to the NCAA Division II Cross Country Championships during his collegiate career.
Coach Trey specializes in coaching athletes across all levels, including youth, middle-school, high school, and adults. His coaching philosophy is rooted in fostering a love for running while helping athletes achieve their personal bests through structured training, individualized plans, and mentorship.
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Sat, Feb 14, 2026 at 10:00 AMSee full details
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Check-in begins at 8:00 AM and the race starts at 10:00 AM.
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The event is fully accessible and pet-friendly, but all pets must remain leashed at all times.
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This is a certified 5K with professional timing. All results will be posted immediately after the race.
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To guarantee your Cupid's Chase shirt, please register by January 1, 2026; after that date, shirts will be available while supplies last.
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Giveaways include a Cupid's Chase finisher medal and drawstring bag, available while supplies last.
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Trophies will be awarded to the top 3 overall male and female finishers.
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Age group medals will be awarded to the overall male and female finishers in each of the following 14 age groups: 12 & under, 13–15, 16–19, 20–24, 25–29, 30–34, 35–39, 40–44, 45–49, 50–54, 55–59, 60–64, 65–69 and 70 & over.
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This is a rain or shine event. All registration fees are non-refundable.
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Sat, Mar 07, 2026 at 9:00 AMSee full details
The True to the Brew 5K – Capital City Passage offers an exciting NEW urban trail course! Join us on Saturday, March 7th for the first 2026 race in the Palmetto Trail Race Series and the True to the Brew Trifecta, 5K, 10K and 13.1! This 5K race guides participants through downtown Columbia, SC, along the Capital City Passage of the Palmetto Trail.
Runners and walkers alike will enjoy this unique opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant atmosphere while still being on a true Palmetto Trail course. We encourage you to sign up your entire family. This race is great for all ages! Hurry and sign up to secure your slot. We are capping this race to 500 and True to the Brew events are known to SELL OUT!
Proceeds from this event benefit the Palmetto Trail and will go directly toward expanding and maintaining the trail across South Carolina. Your participation helps us build this incredible resource that connects the state’s mountains to its sea!
Like all True to the Brew events, you can expect an unforgettable finish line celebration! Join us at the Palmetto Trail Headquarters at 722 King Street in Columbia, SC, where live music, free beer from Craft & Draft, and a full cookout with all the fixings await you after the race. Don’t miss out on this unique trail experience right in the heart of the city!
This race is rain or shine! No Refunds or Deferrals. Strollers and Dogs on a leash are welcome!
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Fri, Apr 10, 2026 at 6:15 PMSee full details
Established in 1973, The Governor's Cup is one of the most prestigious and longest-running road races in the Southeast. Hosted in the historic city of Columbia, SC, the weekend includes The Main Street Mile, The Kids' Main Street Mile, Governor's Cup 5K and (the main event) The Governor's Cup Half Marathon. The city boasts mild April temperatures, rolling hills and tree-covered streets that all lead to fast race times. The races are organized "by runners, for runners" and participants get the elite treatment as they smash their race goals. Great food, drink, entertainment, culture and southern hospitality are all served in generous portions at The Governor's Cup.
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Sat, May 02, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
🦞 Get ready to pinch the pavement at the Crawdaddy Dash 5k ! Join us on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 at 8am for the kick off to the legendary Rosewood Crawfish Festival! Hosted by the Greater Rosewood Merchants Association, this shellebration of speed will start and finish in the Rosewood Neighborhood close to City Roots, setting the stage for an unforgettable race day experience.
🏃♂️ Lace up your running shoes and claw your way to the starting line for by 8 am. All are welcome to join in the fun – walkers and runners alike!
🎟️ And here's the catch – your race registration includes a FREE entry to the Rosewood Crawfish Festival, where you can enjoy a great day of food, fun and entertainment!
👫 Gather your squad and save with our Team Registration option! Rally your crew of five or more friends, family members, or coworkers, and unlock an automatic discount that makes signing up together a breeze. Whether you're a seasoned team of runners or a group looking for a fun fitness challenge, joining forces ensures savings and adds an extra layer of camaraderie to your Crawdaddy Dash 5k experience. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to bond, motivate each other, and conquer the course together! 🏃♂️👟
🏆 But wait, there's more! Dive into the competition and vie for our epic Overall, Masters, and Age Group Awards(every 5 years).
🌊 Sign up today and join us for Crawdaddy Dash 5k. It's a shell of a good time you won't want to miss! 🦐
Please Note: The Crawdaddy Dash 5K is a rain or shine event. Registration is non-refundable, so come ready to enjoy the day no matter the weather! Strollers and leashed dogs are more than welcome—bring the whole crew for a fun and festive race day!
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Wed, Jun 03, 2026 at 6:30 PMSee full details
On June 3rd at 6:30 pm, all Fleet Feet locations will participate in the The Big Run, a nationwide event coinciding with Global Running Day. We will be holding a timed race this year. We want to see the whole community participate because, seriously, running together rocks. Let us recap the ways: You get to join Fleet Feet communities across the country participating in a nationally-coordinated event in different locations all on the same day. It's on a Wednesday-who couldn't use a mid-week pump-up? We know some people. And some pretty cool brands. Let's just say, we're planning some fun raffle giveaways and category prizes. The Big Run is open to runners of all levels and abilities. Come celebrate with us at Fleet Feet Irmo!
This race will not be marshaled.
Help Us Give Back: TBD
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Sat, Sep 26, 2026 at 9:00 AMSee full details
Join Curing Kids Cancer for the annual Run With All Your Heart 5K Fun Run in Columbia, SC!
Created by Future Leaders in Medicine Group, this event unites medical students from across the country in the fight against childhood cancer. This initiative supports critical pediatric research projects that make a difference in children’s lives.
📍 When & Where?
🗓 Saturday, September 26th
⏰ Race Start: 9:00 AM
📍 NEW COURSE! University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC
💥 Join as a Team & SAVE! 💥
Gather your friends, family, or coworkers and register as a TEAM! Teams of 4 or more will SAVE $5 per person on individual registration fees. Plus, the Top 3 Teams will receive a special award on race day—so rally your crew and run for a cause!
This event is open to all ages and running abilities—whether you're a competitive runner or just want to enjoy a fun morning for a great cause.
We can’t wait to see you there!
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Sat, Oct 24, 2026 at 10:00 AMSee full details
Get ready for a hauntingly good time as Elmwood Park Neighborhood presents the Nightmare In Elmwood 5K & Kids Fun Run on Saturday, October 24th. This ghoulishly entertaining event will take place in the heart of downtown Columbia, featuring a scary course through the historic Elmwood Park neighborhood.
Hosted by GRIT Endurance, LLC, the Nightmare In Elmwood is not just about a race; it's about community, fun, and giving back. This year's event is set to benefit the Historic Elmwood Park Neighborhood Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the enhancement of this beloved Columbia neighborhood.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, October 24th
Location: Start/Finish Line near Palmetto Life Church Park Street, 2204 Park Street, Elmwood Park neighborhood
Start Times:5K - 10am
Kids Fun Run (Age 12 and under) - 9:30am
Participants can expect a newly certified USA Track & Field course that will guide them through the charming and historic Elmwood Park neighborhood, transformed into a Halloween wonderland. The course will showcase the community's creativity with the best Halloween decor, ensuring a spooky atmosphere for all participants.
Families are encouraged to join in the fun, with the Kids Fun Run kicking off at 11am for children aged 12 and under. It's a fantastic opportunity for the younger goblins and ghouls to embrace the Halloween spirit.
The Nightmare In Elmwood is not just a race; it's a chance to make a positive impact. Proceeds from the event will go toward supporting the Historic Elmwood Park Neighborhood Association's initiatives to enhance and improve the neighborhood.
Registration is open now! Don't miss out on the chance to join the fun.
Participants are encouraged to dress in their best and most creative Halloween Attire. Prizes will be awarded for the top six most creative outfits! Run safe and family event friendly costumes encouraged!
All registered participants will receive a quality, soft blend racing shirt! It's sure to be one of your favorites. Our Shirt Guarantee Deadline is October 3, 2026. Those who register after this date are not guaranteed a shirt. We are unable to hold shirts after packet pick up and race day. You must pick up your shirt during packet pick up or on race day. We are unable to ship shirts. We appreciate your understanding!
This is a nonrefundable event! No Deferrals. Race is rain or shine. No Bib Exchanges after 10/22/26.
Strollers and hounds on a leash are welcome!
*Due to safety issues, participants who are not present for the official start time with their bib will not be allowed to start the race late. Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to race time.
About Elmwood Park Neighborhood Association:
The Historic Elmwood Park Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to preserving and enhancing the Elmwood Park neighborhood in Columbia, SC. The association focuses on community development, beautification, and fostering a sense of unity among residents.
About GRIT Endurance, LLC:
GRIT Endurance, LLC is an event management company dedicated to creating memorable and meaningful experiences for participants and communities. Specializing in endurance events, GRIT Endurance brings expertise and passion to each event, ensuring a positive impact on both participants and the communities involved.
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Fri, Nov 27, 2026 at 10:00 AMSee full details
Shandon Neighborhood Council is excited to announce the Shandon Turkey Trot and Burn 5K 2026
Join us on Black Friday, November 27th at 10am for this great community race! Are you ready to Trot & Burn with your Flock ? Then THIS is the race for you! Runners and Walkers are Welcome! This race, managed by GRIT Endurance, LLC, will benefit The Shandon Neighborhood Council, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, who will use the race proceeds to provide improvements in this historical neighborhood. Our race will showcase our beautiful Shandon Neighborhood with its USA Track & Field certified course. The Start/Finish will be near Craft and Draft where we will hold our awards ceremony. Our 2025 race will be capped at 1000 registrants! So you better get Trotting! We hope to SELL OUT quick.
Participants are encouraged to dress in their best and most creative Thanksgiving Turkey Burn Attire. Prizes will be awarded for the top ten most creative outfits!
No Refunds or Deferrals!
Race is rain or shine. Strollers and dogs on a leash are welcome!
- NO LATE TURKEYS! Due to safety issues, participants who are not present for the official start time with their bib will not be allowed to start the race late. Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to race time.
SHIRT DEADLINE! - You must be registered by Nov 3rd to be guaranteed a shirt! We will order extra shirts! But there are NO GUARANTEES of a race shirt after the deadline. Shirts can't be held for pick up after the race has occurred. All shirts must be picked up a packet pick up before the race or on race day. We are not able to mail shirts to participants.
Register Today for Shandon Turkey Trot & Burn 5K! Bring your family and friends! You don't want to miss it!
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Sat, Dec 12, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
It's tiiiiiiime! We want to see your ugliest, weirdest, or fanciest holiday ensemble on Saturday, December 12th for the Friends of the Met CAC Ugly Sweater 5K in Forest Acres, SC! Proceeds and donations will benefit Friends of the Met CAC, a non-profit organization established to support the mission of the Metropolitan Children’s Advocacy Center (Met CAC). The Met CAC provides essential services to children who are suspected victims of physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and other types of maltreatment. Your support helps the Met CAC in their fight against child abuse.
The race will be officially timed by Charlestowne Road Race Services. Be sure to hang around after the race and enjoy a holiday themed awards celebration. Awards will be given to top finishers, as well as to the participant with the "ugliest" outfit.
Runners and walkers are invited to show off your pet's holiday outfit too. An award for best dressed pet will be given for furry friends too! Don't forget to register your best four-legged friend!
Packet Pick-up will be on Friday, December 11, 2026 between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. at Fleet Feet Forest Acres, 4525 Forest Drive, Columbia, SC 29206 or on race day between 7:00 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. near Gills Creek Memorial Park.
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Sat, Feb 20, 2027 at 9:00 AMSee full details
UDPATES for 2027 Races Coming Soon!
Potential Updates to Course, Location, Time
NEW Swag, Apparel, Medals, and MORE!
Registration set to open for this race on September 1st
The First 100 Participants Receive Custom Race Socks
🏜️ Welcome to the Sandhills Trail & Ultra Festival! 🏕️
Are you ready to run wild in the heart of South Carolina? Lace up and hit the trails at Sesquicentennial State Park in Columbia, SC – where pine forests meet sandy ridges, and every step brings you closer to nature.🌲 Whether you're tackling a single loop or testing your grit in the 30-hour challenge, the Sandhills Trail Race has something for every trail runner.
Distance Options
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🏃♀️ 7.5-Mile Fun Loop – One lap of sweet singletrack through forest and lakeside views.
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🏃 25K (2 Laps) – Perfect for those ready to push past comfort and into the challenge zone.
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🏃♂️ 50K (4 Laps) – A full day of adventure for ultrarunners craving miles and memories.
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🌙 30-Hour Ultra – How far can you go? Push your limits under sun, stars, and soul.
Why You’ll Love It:
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🏞️ Serene lake views & sandy trails beneath towering pines
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🏕️ Easy-access personal aid station zone in the open field
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💫 Camp overnight or relax between laps – it's your race, your pace
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🎶 Chill trail vibes + post-race hangs with fellow dirt-loving runners
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🥒 Aid station snacks, cool drinks, and all the good trail feels
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🥇 Belt buckles for 100-mile finishers (13 laps)
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📍 Location: Sesquicentennial State Park – 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223
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🕘 Race Start: 9:00 AM (All distances)
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📦 Packet Pickup: 1 hour before your race at Shelter #1
🗺️ Course Highlights - COURSE MAP HERE
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7.75-mile loop 💫
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Soft pine needle-covered singletrack ✅
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A few smooth paved sections around the lake 👟
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Rolling hills + lake breezes = chef’s kiss 🌬️
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Fast, runnable, and beginner-friendly (but the 30-hour? That’s another story 😏)
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🚗 Parking Info: You’ll enter the park and head to the lake parking lot near the ranger station. Have a state park pass or bring a few bucks for a day pass. If you’re staying the day or overnight, feel free to pop up a 10x10 near the field by the start/finish.
⛺️ 30-Hour Runners: Limited crew/aid support from 10PM–6AM. Timing continues overnight. Take a nap if needed — we get it 😴. Just leave your chip at the table when you're done.
🍬 Aid Station Snacks May Include: Pickles, cookies, candy, chips, fig newtons, pretzels, water, Coke, and ginger ale. Want something special? Bring it! This is a cupless event, so bring your own hydration gear 🥤
🎉 Whether you're aiming for a PR, your first ultra, or just a fun day in the woods, the Sandhills Trail Race is your ticket to an unforgettable trail experience. Let the sandy paths guide you and the forest fuel your soul 🌳
Race Email Recap
- Date/Time
- Races Start at 9am / Packet Pickup Starts at 8am
- Address
- 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223
- Parking
- Follow signs that will sneak you behind the ranger station but lead you to the open field adjacent to the start/finish line where packet pickup will be underneath Picnic Shelter #2 (linked HERE)
- Personal Base Camp
- You can setup in that grass field at the start/finish line area. When you arrive in the parking area near the ranger station please be on the lookout for the event parking arrows leading you back behind the ranger station for setup.
- Early Setup
- If you want to setup your 10 x 10 on Friday you are permitted but there is still a day use fee to get into the park unless you have a parking pass
- Parking Fee
- We are still waiting on confirmation on this fee. It is typically $6 per runner unless you have a state park pass but they have also done a February donation drive of a jar of Peanut Butter as the price of admission.
- Aid Station
- There is a fully stocked aid station at the start/finish line of the 7.5 mile loop. We welcome any aid station donations or personally prepared/baked items to share with the crowd. We are planning to have 5 gallon jugs at the campground loop around mile marker 5 of the 7.5 mile loop
- Awards/Timing
- Results will be live, 30 hour runners will post current lap tracking, we will announce overall and age group awards at various intervals based on estimated finish time per distance
o 7.5 Mile Awards @ 10:30
o 25k Awards @ 12pm
o 50k Awards @ 3pm
- Trail Series
- All participants will be entered into our Age Group Trail Series awards HERE
- Order Apparel
- Link to order apparel is below
- Course
- Link to our Strava course is linked in the Race Info above on the registration page
- Weather
- Rain in the forecast but we are rain or shine. In the event we have a severe wind storm similar to last year with fallen trees we will email/notify participants to clear the trail for safety. This is not a real concern at this time with the estimated weather incoming.
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Local Clubs & Organizations
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Club[email protected] (803) 665-6141
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Club
USA Swimming Club. Club Excellence: Bronze. 74 members.
[email protected] +1 803-206-7929 -
Club
USA Swimming Club. 169 members.
[email protected] +1 319-471-5054 -
Club
USA Swimming Club. 31 members.
[email protected] +1 803-261-2663 -
Club
USA Swimming Club. Safe Sport Recognized. 158 members.
[email protected] +1 563-343-4665