2026 Center of the Nation Series - Day 5 (ND)
The Center of the Nation Marathon offers a unique experience in Bowman, North Dakota.
Race Date
Oct 2, 2026
Location
Bowman, ND
Quick facts
- Date
- Friday, October 2, 2026
- Location
- Bowman, North Dakota
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 627
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Center of the Nation Marathon, first run in 2013 and now in its 12th year, takes place in Bowman, North Dakota. This event draws runners from approximately 21 states, showcasing a steady field trend and a loyal repeat-runner rate of about 13%.
The course is designed to be flat with minimal elevation change, making it a potentially fast day for participants. The typical winning time hovers around 1 hour and 46 minutes, suggesting a competitive yet accessible race environment.
Participants can expect a community-focused atmosphere, with organizers emphasizing a "Loony Community" and "World's Best Marathon & Half Series" ethos. The event promises great food and award-winning medals, contributing to a memorable race day experience.
Race-provided description
World's Best Marathon & Half Series! No Time Limits Great Food Award-Winning Medals Loony Community! We RUN this country, TOGETHER!Event details and scheduleHere's a link to the 2026 Center of the Nation Series page, which has additional information on each of the locations and the series as a whole. If you're interested in any Mainly gear, check out our Merch! Peace, love, and cheers to you all! -Mainly Family
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Quality Score
Solid Pick5412 years running
~49 finishers a year
small race — neutral
13% returning runners
limited extras
runners from 21 states
winner 1:46:30
typical high 72°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
50°
Afternoon (High)
72°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
15 mph
Wind
55%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 627 finishers actually crossed the line across 12 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
627
Median time
3:44:25
Latest turnout
45
States
48
Turnout by year
2017–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
About the Organizer
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Center of the Nation Series - Day 5 (ND)?
The 2026 Center of the Nation Series - Day 5 (ND) is held on Friday, October 2, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM.
Where does the 2026 Center of the Nation Series - Day 5 (ND) take place?
It takes place in Bowman, North Dakota.
What distances does the 2026 Center of the Nation Series - Day 5 (ND) offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Center of the Nation Series - Day 5 (ND) course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Center of the Nation Series - Day 5 (ND) is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the 2026 Center of the Nation Series - Day 5 (ND)?
HalfRuns has finish records for 627 runners who have completed the 2026 Center of the Nation Series - Day 5 (ND).
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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