Steam Train Half Marathon

Race Against the Train

The Steam Train Half Marathon and 2-person relay is the only road race in the country where runners try to outrun a century-old Steam Train. Friends and family members board the train at the start and leave the station at the race start. They will head to Deep River Landing to cheer on runners at the halfway point before both Train and runners return to the station and the finish line. Who will get there first?

Proceeds will benefit Community Health Resources (CHR), an essential behavioral healthcare provider, as well as three local nonprofits: the Essex Public Library in Essex, the Deep River Fire Department, and The Nest Coffee House / A Little Compassion Inc. 

Race Information Pre-event registration is required through https://runsignup.com/Race/CT/Essex/BeatTheTrain    All runners receive a package of great swag!Runners who complete the half marathon or relay in less than 2 hours and 20 minutes will receive a commemorative train whistleSpectators can ride along on the steam train for $25; tickets may be purchased via Essex Steam Train & Riverboat: https://essex-steam-train-riverboat.myshopify.com/products/half-marathon-and-relay-steam-train-excursion-saturday-april-13-2024-10-00-am  Race Day Schedule 8:30am: Day-of check-in begins10am: Race kicks off11:15am: Relay exchange at Deep River Landing12pm: After-Party begins at Surfridge Brewing Company (6 Main Street, Building 3, Essex)12:30pm: Awards Ceremony Early Packet Pickup

Friday, April 12, 11am-1pm at Marathon Sports Old Saybrook (238 Main St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475)

Special Rate for CHR Employees 

Register for the Virtual Half Marathon for only $25. Registration includes a t-shirt, bib, and finishers medal. 

Sponsorship and Volunteer Opportunities

Learn more about our sponsorship and volunteer opportunities. With any questions, please contact Eliza Patterson, Development and Communications Manager of CHR, at [email protected].