Fool's Dual Half Marathon
Gloucester's Fool's Dual Half Marathon offers ocean views along Cape Ann's scenic coastline.
Race Date
Apr 3, 2027
Location
Gloucester, MA
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, April 3, 2027
- Location
- Gloucester, Massachusetts
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 5K
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Yes
- Finishers on record
- 4,413
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Fool's Dual Half Marathon, first run in 2012 and now in its 14th year, invites runners to shake off winter with a scenic coastal journey on Cape Ann. This road race, typically drawing around 716 finishers from approximately 22 states, offers a refreshing start to the spring running season.
The course is celebrated for its beautiful ocean views as it winds along the coastline. While the course is certified and has a slight net drop, the elevation gain and loss are minimal, suggesting a predominantly flat and fast experience. Runners can expect a race that balances natural beauty with the potential for a strong performance, especially given the typical winning time of just over 80 minutes.
With a 5K also on offer, the event caters to a range of runners, though the half marathon is the main draw. The race provides a clear, well-marked route for those seeking a straightforward yet visually appealing race day.
Race-provided description
5K & Half Marathon! Jump into spring with beautiful ocean views as you run along the scenic coastline on Cape Ann. Kids 5K only $10.00! (12 & under)
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, April 3, 2027
Start Time
9:00 AM
Giveaway
Race Shirt
Start Location
O'Maley Middle School, Gloucester, MA, 01930
Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Coastal
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
+0.28 m
Separation
0.8%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
MA17001BK
Relatively flat with minimal net elevation change. Loop course — start and finish are close together.
Quality Score
Standout7314 years running
~716 finishers a year
growing or steady
5% returning runners
USATF certified · 6 timing sources
runners from 22 states
winner 1:20:02
typical high 50°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
35°
Afternoon (High)
50°
Cool conditions — dress in layers, perfect for fast times
0.1"
Precipitation
16 mph
Wind
69%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 4,413 finishers actually crossed the line across 14 years.
Most recent
2026
Total finishers
4,413
Median time
2:06:57
Latest turnout
374
States
34
Turnout by year
2018–2026
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Fool's Dual Half Marathon?
The Fool's Dual Half Marathon is held on Saturday, April 3, 2027, starting at 9:00 AM.
Where does the Fool's Dual Half Marathon take place?
It takes place in Gloucester, Massachusetts.
What distances does the Fool's Dual Half Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 5K.
Is the Fool's Dual Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The Fool's Dual Half Marathon is a ultra-flat, loop course course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.
How many people run the Fool's Dual Half Marathon?
HalfRuns has finish records for 4,413 runners who have completed the Fool's Dual Half Marathon.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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