Capacity
Half-Marathon Run/Walk participants: 12,700
half-marathon Competitive Walk: 300
Note: Should we reach capacity before registration is over, we reserve the right to close without notice. These events do sell out, so you’ll want to take advantage of reduced rates and guaranteed participation by registering as soon as possible. Also note that on-site registration is not available for any events.
Age Restriction:
All participants of the International Half-Marathon must be 16 years of age or older to participate.
The Course
Our Half-Marathon course offers international appeal, traversing both downtown Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, crossing the border at both the Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. The shared Start/Finish area on W. Fort St. at Second Ave., near Detroit Free Press operations, has enabled organizers to combine resources and improve runner and spectator experiences alike.
With a wave start, smaller groups of participants are sent off at two-minute intervals beginning at 7:00 AM, which eases congestion in those early miles. Groups are based on the projected pace indicated on the registration form, so an accurate response is necessary.
Barring last minute changes due to unforeseen construction or other factors, the 2013 course should remain the same as 2012.
Time Requirements
We consider our events “competitive”, and not simply fun runs or walks. A “Last Chance Pacer” will be provided for your events. These pacers will travel at the average pace needed to cross the finish line at four hours. Your progress will be monitored throughout the race. If you fall significantly behind the “Last Chance Pacer”, you will be given fair warning to pick up the pace. If you can’t keep pace, you will be required to board a bus following the pacers to be transported back to the start-finish area. We will close the half marathon course at 11:30 AM.
We are fortunate to offer two international border crossings during the course of our event. To continue providing this unique opportunity, we MUST re-open the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel to vehicular traffic at 10:00 AM. To ensure your safety and to meet all time limits, we have established the following milestones:
Milestones:
| Miles | Kilometers | Landmark | Time |
| 1.9 | 3.1 | Bridge Entrance | 7:57 AM |
| 4.1 | 6.6 | Bridge Exit | 8:39 AM |
| 6.9 | 11.1 | Tunnel Entrance | 9:26 AM |
| 8.1 | 13.0 | Tunnel Exit | 9:52 AM |
| 10.8 | 17.4 | Mexicantown | 10:41 AM |
| 13.1 | 21.1 | Finish Line | 11:24 AM |
NOTE: If at any time you fall behind these milestone times, you may be required to board a bus to be transported back to the start-finish area.
Pace Teams
Want to run with a group? Hope to finish within a certain time? Trying to qualify for Boston?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, consider signing up for our Pace Team service at the Health & Fitness Expo. Read more information about Pace Teams.
Competitive Walk
The competitive walk operates on an honor system. The only requirement is that you must walk the entire distance, in any form of walk you choose. You will wear a second bib identifying you as a walker. If a participant who enters the walk is caught running by anyone on or along the course, they will be disqualified.
International Requirements:
All International Half-Marathon divisions are international events crossing U.S. and Canadian borders twice. It is a privilege and an honor to use the Ambassador Bridge and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. Do not drop articles of clothing, water bottles, tissue or paper cups as you run across these prestigious landmarks.
It is imperative that you accurately complete all information on the registration form, including date of birth, citizenship, and green card information (if applicable). All registrations are submitted to the Department of Homeland Security for pre-approval. For further requirements and restrictions click here.
Prizes
Prizing below is for Half-Marathon Runners. All individual cash prizes are based on “clock time” (not chip time).
| Place | Open Male/Female | Masters Male/Female |
| 1st | $2,000 | $1000 |
| 2nd | $1,000 | $500 |
| 3rd | $500 | $250 |
NOTE: In the event that a Masters runner also places in the Open division, they will receive both the Masters and the Open cash awards.
Half-Marathon Sponsor
Race Bling
Voted top 25 medal design two years in a row by Marathon and Beyond magazine. Check out other awards up for grabs this year.
Check out other awards up for grabs this year.
View Awards
International Reqs.
Due to the international crossing of the race you are required to have a valid passport or enhanced drivers license. Don’t forget to get yours before race day so you won’t miss out on this great experience!
View Requirements
Are You Ready!?
Where do I park? Can I wear headphones? Do I REALLY need a passport? Read our FAQs and come race day you’ll be an expert!
