In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the 7th Annual Emerald Isle Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K is officially canceled.
Originally slated for March 2020, the race was postponed until October 31, 2020 due to complications caused by COVID-19. To protect all race participants, volunteers, spectators and the Emerald Isle community, the Emerald Isle Marathon committee has made the difficult decision to forego the rescheduled race in its entirety.
“As we approach autumn, it is clear that COVID-19 continues to impact all aspects of our lives,” stated Candace Dooley, Emerald Isle Race Director. “Our goal was to hold a wonderful race in late October. Yet, we cannot place our competitors or community at risk.”
We understand that this announcement is challenging, so we will offer the following options:
Automatic deferment to March 27, 2021
Full refund
Current registrations will automatically be deferred to March 27, 2021. If you prefer a full race refund, please email . Due to a high volume of email traffic, please allow 7-10 days for a response.
You have trained hard, made travel arrangements, dreamt of the finish line and put blood, sweat and tears into your preparation for race day. Your hard work and dedication are admirable. Don’t slow down. Keep pushing ahead.
Please join us March 2021 and make your dream a reality!
Happy Running,
Candace Dooley, Race Director
About the Marathon
Welcome to the official website for the Emerald Isle Marathon. Registration is now open!
Answers to common questions about the event can be
Early Bird Packet pick up: Emerald Isle Board meeting room from 4-7pm on March 25 Packet Pick up and Expo: Emerald Isle Gym from 3-9pm on March 27.
We have tried to answer some of the more common questions. However, if we have not addressed your question, please feel free to contact us on Facebook or through e-mail.
Yes, if it has not sold out. You will not be guaranteed the correct shirt size if you register at that time.
Can I transfer my registration to someone else?
No, we no longer offer this option as it was over used in the previous race.
Can you mail my participant packet to me if I can't make it to the race?
No, sorry. We cannot mail packets.
Can I change to another race distance?
Yes. All changes must be made no later than 7:15am. You may only downsize to a shorter distance. No refunds will be provided.
Who gets medals?
All marathon and half marathon participants will receive a medal at the finish.
Are there caps for each race?
Yes. Marathon: 1,000 Half Marathon: 1,000 5K: 500
Do I get a t-shirt?
Yes, all registrants will receive an official race technical tee.
Will there be water stations along the route?
5K- Mile 1.5. Half Marathon- Miles 3, 6, 9, 11, Gatorade at miles 9 and 11. Marathon-Miles 2.5, 4, 6.5, 8, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 22, 24 Gatorade at miles 14, 18 and 22 GU and Cliff Protein at miles 8, 16 and 21
Where will the port-a-potties be located:
Marathon- Mile 6, 15, 22. Half Marathon-mile 9
Will there be awards again this year?
Yes, there will be age group awards in all 3 races! Be sure to stick around to find out if you are a winner!
Will there be an after party?
All runners are invited to The Growler Taproom, located on the corner of Mallard Drive and NC 58 (you’ll run right past it near the Start / Finish line!) for free post-race food and great beer for purchase. After Party starts at 10 am and will last until…….!
Will there be a bag check?
Yes. There will be a tag attached to each bib and items may be checked in at the start/finish line under the tent.
What are the USAT&F Certification #'s?
Full Marathon- NC14106DF Half Marathon- NC14031DF 5K- NC14029DF
Are strollers permitted?
Strollers are only permitted in the half marathon and the 5k. NO strollers are permitted in the marathon.
Can I wear headphones during the race?
Yes, we understand the importance and need to have your music for motivation during the race. We do ask that you remove one headphone when approaching intersections and/or race officials. We don't want you to miss any directions they may be providing.
May someone else pick up my packet?
Yes, you may send someone else to pick up your packet.
Will you have medical staff available?
Yes, we have an RN and multiple EMTs located at mile 18. We also have the Emerald Isle EMS at the start/finish along with an MD and RN.
What are the average temperatures?
Average morning temperatures are in the 40s and warm up into the 60s. March weather can be fickle, of course, so plan accordingly.
Lodging
There are several hotels in the area which will make you very comfortable for the race. As race day approaches so please make sure to check back and watch our Facebook page for updates. If you are an area hotel and would like to be listed here, please e-mail us
Hampton Inn, Swansboro NC. For reservations, call the hotel direct (910-325-9000) and use the code EIM or book online
Islander, Emerald Isle NC: For reservations, call the hotel direct and ask for the Emerald Isle Marathon Rate or group Code EIMB032919 to receive the discounted rate. Or visit the website and click on reservations, put in your arrival/departure date and then click on "Do you have a group code". Type in EIMB032919 to receive the discounted rate.
Best Western, Cedar Point NC: For reservations, call the hotel direct (252-393-3654) and ask for the Emerald Isle Marathon Rate or group Code EIM to receive the discounted rate.
Parkerton Inn, Cape Carteret NC: For reservations, call the hotel direct (252-393-9000) and ask for the Emerald Isle Marathon Rate or group Code EIM to receive the discounted rate.
Holiday Trav-L-Park Resort, Emerald Isle NC
Emerald Isle Realty, Emerald Isle NC
Event Parking
There will be ample parking at multiple locations for the event. In addition, everything will be clearly marked so please follow the directions of the attendants. We look forward to seeing you!
Participants in both races should park in the NC 58 grassy right of way on both sides of NC 58 between Islander Drive and Woodpecker Lane. Please pull completely off of the NC 58 shoulder and into the grassy area, and please utilize the full area between the NC 58 shoulder and the bike path or sidewalk. Please park at a 45 degree angle to allow for more efficient parking in this area.
Emerald Isle Police Department personnel and signs will be in place on race day to direct participants to the authorized parking areas, and a map indicating the authorized parking areas is attached.
Handicapped parking is available at vacant lot at the corner of Reed and Islander, located on the southeast corner of Reed Drive and Islander Drive (8915 Reed Drive).
Welcome to the official website for the Emerald Isle Marathon. Registration is now open! 
