Charleston Distance Run-America’s 15-miler

“America’s
only 15-mile race is a scenic but challenging course, starting at our
majestic State Capitol, taking you through downtown, rolling through
our beautiful hillside neighborhoods, and along Charleston’s
riverfront”

Charleston Distance Run 2010

History

Known as America’s 15-miler, the Charleston Distance Run has become a Labor Day tradition in Charleston, WV. It began in 1973 after local runner, Don Cohen, was asked to add a race to the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta.

Wanting to include as many Charleston neighborhoods as he could, Cohen opted to not choose a distance but to map out the course and let it choose itself. Thus, the 15-miler was born.

The Sternwheel Regatta has gone the way of the Neanderthal but the Charleston Distance Run lives on.

crossing the finish line

2011

The Starting line is at the State Capitol this year. The course runs through downtown Charleston, beautiful neighborhoods, and along the riverfront. The race ends at Laidley Field.

This race is challenging. Not only is it 15 grueling miles but 2-3/4 miles of it are uphill.

This years race is Saturday September 3, 2011 at 7:30 am in Charleston, WV

Come on over to Charleston on September 3 and root for all the participants in America’s only 15-miler.