Sledgehammer Beach Run

Sat, Apr 11, 2026, 8:30 AM EDT

Location: N Topsail Beach, NC; 2950 Island Drive, 28460
Type: RUN

Official registration

At a glance

Run on the sand with purpose at North Topsail Beach, honoring veterans and supporting Semper Fi & America’s Fund.

Scenic
Competitive
For a Cause

Who it's for

For a Cause
Military & First Responders

Great for: cause-driven runners, runners who like a competitive edge

Less ideal for: walkers-only pacing

Embrace the unique challenge of the Sledgehammer Beach Run on the beautiful sands of North Topsail Beach, NC. This event offers a Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K, all run directly on the beach, providing both stunning ocean views and a rewarding test of endurance. More than just a race, it's a meaningful opportunity to honor the legacy of Dr. E.B. Sledge, a WWII Marine veteran, and support Semper Fi & America’s Fund, assisting wounded service members and their families. Run with purpose and experience a truly memorable coastal event.

What to expect

Experience a unique race entirely on the sand with scenic ocean views.
Choose your challenge from a Half Marathon, 10K, or 5K.
Run with purpose, supporting combat veterans and their families. Optional race shirts are available.

Standout details

Run entirely on the sand
Supports Semper Fi & America’s Fund
Honors combat veterans
Half Marathon 4-hour cutoff

Perks & features

Medal

From the public listing — confirm on the official site.

Auto-drafted from the public listing — confirm details on the official event page before signing up.

Distances & registration

6 options

Registration for all distances is through the official signup link above.

3.1 Miles
Sat, Apr 11, 8:30 AM EDT · From $22.20
Opens May 29, 2025, 8:48 AM EDT · Closes Sep 10, 2025, 7:59 PM EDT
3.1 Miles
Sat, Apr 11, 8:30 AM EDT · From $27.50
Opens May 29, 2025, 8:29 AM EDT · Closes Apr 11, 2026, 5:00 AM EDT
6.2 Miles
Sat, Apr 11, 8:30 AM EDT · From $27.50
Opens May 29, 2025, 8:29 AM EDT · Closes Apr 11, 2026, 5:45 AM EDT

+ 3 more options

13.1 Miles
Sat, Apr 11, 8:30 AM EDT · From $48.70
Opens May 29, 2025, 8:48 AM EDT · Closes Sep 10, 2025, 7:59 PM EDT
13.1 Miles
Sat, Apr 11, 8:30 AM EDT · From $27.50
Opens May 29, 2025, 8:29 AM EDT · Closes Apr 11, 2026, 5:45 AM EDT
Sledgehammer 10k Beach Run
Sat, Apr 11, 8:30 AM EDT · From $32.80
Opens May 29, 2025, 8:29 AM EDT · Closes Sep 10, 2025, 7:59 PM EDT

The course

Beach / sand
Flat
Timed race

Vibe Check

Steady Effort

Beach / sand course, longer distance

half marathon distance, sandy or beach-style terrain, flat area, typically mild weather

Based on typical seasonal and area patterns — not a course map or official forecast.

From the organizer

Event Address:

2950 Island Drive

North Topsail Beach, NC

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Experience the beauty of North Topsail Beach while testing your endurance in the Sledgehammer Beach Run—featuring a Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K. This unique race takes place right on the sand, offering both breathtaking views and a rewarding challenge.

Hosted by the Jacksonville-Onslow Sports Commission, the event is held in memory of Dr. E.B. Sledge, a Marine and World War II veteran whose legacy continues to inspire. The mission of the Sledgehammer Beach Run is simple yet powerful: to honor the memory of Sledgehammer and all combat veterans.

Dr. Sledge, a lifelong Marine, spent his postwar years reflecting on the sacrifices and experiences of those who served alongside him. In his honor, a portion of race proceeds supports Semper Fi & America’s Fund, which provides assistance to wounded, ill, and injured service members and their families.

Add this bucket-list race to your calendar and run with purpose as you honor heroes, support a worthy cause, and take on the challenge of the Sledgehammer Beach Run.

Course Information

Half marathon, 10k & 5k course are all on the beach

**Half marathon cut off time is 4 hours. Anyone left on the course after the fourth hour will be picked up by a staff member and will be disqualified for awards.

T-shirts

In order to keep the cost of races low for runners we have created the option to purchase a shirt instead of just including one in the registration. Register and select to purchase any item from our race store. Your items will be available to pick up with your packet or shipped to you if you're doing the race virtually. We have a variety of items to choose from.

Reminder: this is a rain or shine event

This event is owned & operated by the Jacksonville-Onslow Sports Commission. Learn more about us at www.playjosc.com

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