About the Event

🎈 The Great Balloon Chase

Rise to the Run!

A destination race celebrating the magic of hot air balloons and the thrill of running

🎉 10th Anniversary Celebration! 🎉

The first 1,000 registrants will receive an exclusive commemorative jacket!

RaceNM proudly presents the Great Balloon Chase—available in a Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K. Get ready for the most breathtaking run of your life! Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of hot air balloons from the world's largest ballooning event soaring above you as you run.

Why This Race Is a Must-Do

🌄 Unparalleled Scenery

Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of hot air balloons from the world's largest ballooning event soaring above you as you run!

⛰️ Stunning Backdrop

Race against the majestic Sandia Mountains and the picturesque Rio Grande River Valley. It's like running through a postcard!

🏃 Choose Your Challenge

Whether you're aiming for a half marathon, a swift 10K, or a fun 5K, we've got the perfect distance for you.

✨ Unique Experience

There's no other race that combines the thrill of running with the magic of hot air balloons. It's a bucket-list-worthy event!

📸 Unforgettable Memories

From the starting gun to the finish line, every moment will be Instagram-worthy and etched in your memory forever.

Don't Wait to Register!

Early birds get the worm... and the perks!

Register Now

✓ Secure your preferred shirt size (late registrants may have limited options)

✓ Guarantee your spot in this popular event

✓ Ensure you receive the standard finisher's medal (late registrants may receive a slightly different but equally awesome design)

Join Us for an Extraordinary Morning Run

Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a first-time 5K-er, the Great Balloon Chase offers an experience you won't find anywhere else. It's more than a race—it's an adventure, a challenge, and a celebration all rolled into one unforgettable event.

Don't miss out on this chance to be part of something truly special. Lace up your shoes, set your sights high, and chase those balloons!

Important Notes

• Registration closes when capacity is reached. Early registration is highly recommended to secure your spot and all race perks.
• This event is not affiliated with any other hot air balloon event.
• While we strive to provide an amazing balloon-viewing experience, please note that the presence of hot air balloons during the race cannot be guaranteed due to weather conditions and other factors beyond our control.
• Regardless of balloon activity, we promise an incredible race experience with stunning views and a festive atmosphere!

Join us for this unique destination event that captures the magical spirit of New Mexico's hot air ballooning tradition, combines it with the thrill of running, and showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Land of Enchantment's diverse landscapes!

Races Offered

Great Balloon Chase 1/2 Marathon

Oct 04, 2026

straighten

Distance — 13.1 Miles

terrain

Type — Running

timer

07:00

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$95.00

Great Balloon Chase 10K Run

Oct 04, 2026

straighten

Distance — 10K

terrain

Type — Running

timer

07:30

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$80.00

Great Balloon Chase 5K Run/Walk

Oct 04, 2026

straighten

Distance — 5K

terrain

Type — Running

timer

08:00

sell

$70.00

Weather History

These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Albuquerque.

thermostat Temperature

10.6° / 23.8°

wb_sunny Feels like

7.4° / 19.7°

light_mode Avg sunshine hours

10h 39m

water_drop Avg rainfall

0.5 mm

ac_unit Avg snowfall

—

air Avg wind speed

9.3 km/h (Light breeze)

opacity Sweat loss rate

Moderate

terrain Course conditions

Firm and slightly soft

sunny Max UV Index

Moderate (4.0)

humidity_mid Humidity

35.5%

wb_twilight Sunrise

07:13

nightlight Sunset

18:30

About Albuquerque

Learn more about the host city, Albuquerque.

Albuquerque, also known as ABQ, is a vibrant, sprawling city near the center of New Mexico. Cradled in the Rio Grande Valley beneath the Sandia Mountains, it is by far the largest city in the state, acting as the media, educational, and economic center of New Mexico, as well as the home of the state's only major airport, making it a common entry point into New Mexico. Despite this, Albuquerque is often overshadowed as a tourist destination by Santa Fe, 60 miles (97 km) to the north.