Gilbert Half Marathon

Gilbert Half Marathon takes place in Gilbert, Arizona, on November 21, 2026, with three formats in a staggered start: the half marathon (13.1 miles) at 7:00 AM, the 10K (6.2 miles) at 7:20 AM, and the 5K (3.1 miles) at 7:40 AM. All three courses are flat and USATF-certified, which makes them well suited to chasing a personal record in the cool Arizona fall. The race starts and finishes at Verde at Cooley Station, with a lively atmosphere, on-course support, a pre-race expo, and post-race deals from local businesses, all against a desert backdrop. The event benefits the Shun the Sun foundation, which raises awareness about skin cancer prevention.

Flat and certified is exactly what you want for a half marathon time goal. Plan a 12-week build with a weekly long run reaching 10 to 12 miles and one tempo session at goal pace, then taper over the final two weeks. The 10K suits runners with steady mileage who want a hard effort, and the 5K works as a first race or a fast tune-up. With early starts, eat a light breakfast two hours ahead and arrive with time for the expo and a warm-up.