About the 2027 Desert Classic Half Marathon & 5K
The Desert Classic runs out of Thunderbird Paseo Park, with separate courses for the half marathon and the shorter option. Both are chip timed and professionally marked. The half marathon stretches far enough that there are aid stations scattered throughout with water and sports drink; the shorter course has a couple of stops with water.
Bibs are available race morning at the park, so there is no separate trip the day before. Age group awards go deep, with five-year brackets for both races, all scored on chip time.
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Distances & Start Times
13.1 Miles1/23/2027 07:30$45
3.1 Miles1/23/2027 08:15$30
13.1 Miles1/23/2027 07:30$5
3.1 Miles1/23/2027 08:15$5
13.1 Miles1/23/2027 07:30$45
3.1 Miles1/23/2027 08:15$30
Going for a Time?
Set a goal and get a pace band: every mile split on a card sized for your phone lock screen, so race morning needs no math.
Not sure what to aim for? The half marathon pace chart lists the pace for every finish time.
Where to Stay
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