Runners and walkers of all abilities will come together this Saturday for the sixth annual Wendell Foster Half Marathon & 5K. The event is shaping up to be the largest yet, with more than 900 participants already registered from 16 states and 146 cities.
Presented by Owensboro Health, the race features four divisions: the 13.1-mile half marathon, the 3.1-mile 5K, the Duo Team Division, and the Steps Division. The Steps Division is designed for individuals with disabilities, allowing them to complete their chosen distance in the weeks leading up to race day by tracking their progress online. The Duo Team Division, which has been a part of the event since it began in 2019, gives runners the opportunity to push an individual with a disability in a racing chair during the event.
“We are thrilled to bring our community together once again for this incredible event in support of Wendell Foster,” said Race Director Kara Howard. “Each year, we see participants of all abilities come out to race and celebrate this accomplishment together. Whether you’re running, walking, stepping, or strolling, your participation helps us continue our mission of empowering individuals with disabilities. We can’t wait to see everyone at the starting line.”
Race weekend will kick off with an expo from noon to 6 p.m. on Friday at the Owensboro Convention Center. Participants can check in, pick up their race packets, and visit more than 20 vendor booths offering promotional items. Race-day registration is not available. Registered runners can pick up their bibs on Friday at the expo or on race morning at the Convention Center.
Both the half marathon and 5K will start in downtown Owensboro and feature a fast, flat course that winds through the city’s neighborhoods, streets, and Greenbelt. Runners in both races will pass through Wendell Foster’s campus at mile one.
“One of the most special moments of race day is when participants run through Wendell Foster’s campus at Mile One,” Howard said. “Seeing our residents and supporters cheering on the athletes is a powerful reminder of why we do this event. The energy and encouragement from the community make all the difference, and we invite everyone to come out and be a part of this inspiring experience.”
Following the race, all athletes and their families are invited to the Official After-Party at Goodwood Owensboro, located near the finish line at Smothers Park.
Local residents should plan ahead for road closures and traffic delays the morning of the race. Full closures will begin at 7 a.m. on J.R. Miller Boulevard (between 18th Street and Salem Drive) and on Veteran’s Boulevard. Traffic delays are expected from 7:30–11:35 a.m. on Locust Street, Veach Road, Ford Avenue, Lewis Lane, West Byers Avenue, and South Griffith Avenue. Drivers are urged to use caution and allow extra travel time.
Half Marathon Map
5K Map
Those interested in participating or volunteering can find more information at wendellfoster.org/halfmarathon. For questions, contact Race Director Kara Howard at [email protected].
