Registration for This Beloved Philly Half Marathon Is Now Open
This year, Philadelphia Runner is taking over as the organizer behind Philly Run Fest.
Registration for Philly Run Fest is now open. Photograph courtesy of Penn Images.
Running is kind of a big deal here in Philly. Whether Rocky Balboa had something to do with this or just the fact that this is a beautiful city to run, the running communities in this city are always blowing us away. And as a celebration of just how great Philly runners are, Philly Run Fest is back this June, and registration is now open.
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Formerly known as the ODDyssey Half Marathon, the race rebranded as Run Fest in June 2018, adding a 5K and tons of post-race celebrations to the mix (the race organizers kept the post-race beer tradition, though, don’t worry). Now, for 2019, longtime race director and race founder Carl Ewald has handed over the reins to Philadelphia Runner, which will be managing this year’s race day, scheduled for June 2, 2019.
“We are looking forward to growing the race and its community involvement in the new year,” says Philadelphia Runner marketing director Liz Pagonis. “It is Philly’s hometown half marathon and the heart of the event has always been — and will continue to be — the Philadelphia running community.”
This year, Philly Run Fest will once again include three races through Fairmount Park — the half marathon, half marathon relay, and 5K. After, race teams will be given their own tents for hosting post-run potlucks, tailgates, pie eating contents — you name it. There will be plenty of room to host the fun this year, as the post-race festival is moving to the field across from the Please Touch Museum.
While Pagonis says that Philadelphia Runner plans on keeping the basic format of the race the same this year, they are looking to incorporate more local vendors into the day of the event, as they want to give the race a true Philly feeling.
If you’re looking for a race that really captures the spirit of Philly’s running scene, look no further. Registration is currently open and will run you between $30 and $70 depending on your race selection. After January 31st, prices are set to increase, so don’t drag your feet! Visit here for more information on registration, and head here to create your race team.
