The Secret City Half Marathon & 5K will return for its 16th year on Nov. 23 at Melton Lake Park in Oak Ridge.
This year’s race benefits Girls Inc. The nonprofit empowers girls to be strong, smart, and bold while promoting inclusivity and equity for a more just society, a news release said.
The race begins at 9 a.m. The USATF-certified half marathon course offers 13.1 miles of mostly flat terrain, described in the release as ideal for setting personal records. The course takes runners along Melton Lake, past a working quarry, and through tree-lined roads, before finishing back at the lakefront.
The 5K route follows a similarly scenic path, offering a more accessible yet enjoyable experience for runners of all skill levels.
For those unable to attend in person, a virtual race option will be available, allowing participants to complete their race between Nov. 16 and 30. Virtual runners will receive their race packets by mail after Nov. 30.
Race packet pickup for in-person participants will take place 4-7 p.m. Nov. 21 at the Oak Ridge Chamber of Commerce, 1400 Oak Ridge Turnpike. Packets can also be picked up on race morning from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. at 697 Melton Lake Drive.