ASHEVILLE -- Asheville’s streets hummed with energy on Saturday as over 2,300 runners laced up for the New Belgium Asheville Marathon and Half Marathon. The event, which has grown into a premier destination race, drew a diverse field of participants representing 43 states and six different countries, bringing a truly international spirit to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
A Scenic and Resilient Course
The race kicked off at 7:30 a.m. in the heart of downtown Asheville on College Street. From the starting line, participants of all skill levels embarked on a journey through some of the city’s most iconic and historic landscapes.
The route guided runners through:
Historic North Asheville: Tree-lined streets and stately homes along Charlotte Street and Kimberly Avenue.
Montford Neighborhood: Winding, Victorian-lined roads that offered a glimpse into the city's architectural heritage.
The River Arts District (RAD): A vibrant stretch featuring colorful murals and artist studios.
French Broad River Greenway: The final miles took runners along the scenic riverbanks, including newly restored sections that highlighted the community’s resilience following recent storm repairs.
Celebration at the Finish Line
The grueling miles culminated in a "well-deserved celebration" at New Belgium Brewing in the River Arts District. As a point-to-point race, the brewery served as the ultimate finish line destination, where runners were greeted with live music, local food trucks like Melt Your Heart and The OutPost, and a complimentary craft beer.
Beyond the physical challenge, the 2026 event carried a deeper mission. Organized by iDaph Events, the race partnered with the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County, ensuring that every mile run contributed to local community support and recovery efforts.
Race Highlights
For those keeping an eye on the clock, the marathon remained a USATF-certified Boston Marathon qualifier, attracting serious competitors alongside those simply looking to enjoy the mountain views. Whether they were chasing a personal record or crossing their first finish line, the atmosphere was one of triumph and community