Macon Music Half Marathon Returns with Record-Breaking Expectations

The second Macon Music Half Marathon is set to take place on Saturday, November 16, 2024, as announced by Mayor Lester Miller, Macon Tracks, Atrium Health Navicent, and the Macon Bacon at a press conference held on Wednesday.

Mayor Miller expressed excitement about the event’s return, stating, “We’re excited to say this half marathon is back and better than ever.” He highlighted the success of the previous year’s event, which drew participants from various states, contributing over $125,000 in direct revenue to the community.

Gary Wheat, CEO/President of Visit Macon, emphasized the impact of the inaugural event, which attracted 614 runners from 13 states, one foreign country, and 52 counties in Georgia, making it the largest race longer than 5K in the region.

F.M. Barron, President of Macon Tracks, highlighted the goal of attracting more people to the sport of running and the city itself.

Registration for the race is now open, with an early bird fee of $70 available until May 31. Interested participants can find more information at MaconMusicHalfMarathon.com. The race route will feature live music at historic musical locations, including the Big House Museum, and will culminate at home plate at the Historic Luther Williams Field, where runners and their families can enjoy live music by the A to Z Band, food, and drinks.

Brandon Raphael, President of the Macon Bacon, expressed excitement about hosting the event’s finish line at home plate, stating, “What better way to finish a race than stepping on home plate as you cross the finish line.”

The success of last year’s race contributed to Macon-Bibb County being named a Runner Friendly Community by the Road Runners Club of America for the first time. The event complemented ongoing efforts to improve the trail system, bike lanes, and roads, ensuring safety for all users. These improvements include bike lanes in Downtown and neighborhoods, expansion of the Ocmulgee Heritage Trails, trails at Amerson River Park and Carolyn Crayton Park, and more. Additionally, plans are underway to connect trails to create a half marathon route that avoids road crossings.