OhioHealth Cap City Half Marathon Draws 14,000 Runners, Prompts Major Columbus Road Closures
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Thousands of runners and walkers will take to the streets of downtown Columbus this Saturday, April 26, for the annual OhioHealth Cap City Half Marathon. Organizers expect more than 14,000 participants across three races, leading to significant road closures that will impact traffic through the weekend.
The event features the OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon (13.1 miles), the OhioHealth Quarter Marathon (6.55 miles), and the Columbus Promise 5K (3.1 miles). While the races promise an energetic atmosphere for athletes and spectators alike, drivers should prepare for detours as multiple roads will shut down.
Friday Road Closures Begin at 5 PM
To accommodate race preparations, several key downtown streets will close starting Friday, April 25, at 5 p.m. and remain blocked until Saturday, April 26, at 2 p.m. The affected areas include:
- High Street (between Broad Street and Main Street)
- W. Town Street (from W. Front Street to S. High Street)
- E. Town Street (from S. Third Street to Damian Street)
- E. Rich Street (from Wall Street to S. Third Street)
Saturday’s Full Road Closures
On race day, additional closures will be in effect to ensure runner safety. A detailed map of the impacted routes is available on the event’s official website. Organizers advise drivers to plan alternate routes or expect delays, especially between early morning and early afternoon.
Event Highlights & Community Impact
The OhioHealth Cap City Half Marathon has become a springtime tradition, drawing local runners and out-of-town competitors. Beyond the races, the event supports health and wellness initiatives, with proceeds benefiting community programs.
“This is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of fitness and Columbus’ vibrant spirit,” said one organizer. “We encourage everyone to come out, cheer on the participants, and enjoy the energy of the day.”
For those attending, the full schedule—including start times and post-race festivities—can be found on the official event page.
What to Know If You’re Driving
- Avoid downtown if possible between Friday evening and Saturday afternoon.
- Public transit may be affected; check COTA for updates.
- Spectators should arrive early to secure parking outside the closure zones.
With sunny skies forecasted, the event is expected to draw large crowds. Whether you’re running, volunteering, or watching from the sidelines, this year’s Cap City Half Marathon promises a lively weekend for Columbus.
— Reported by Nexio News
