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.
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
Apr 11, 2026
Distance — Sledgehammer 10k Beach Run
Type — Running
08:30
$30.00
Apr 11, 2026
Distance — 6.2 Miles
Type — Running
08:30
$25.00
Apr 11, 2026
Distance — 3.1 Miles
Type — Running
08:30
$20.00
Apr 11, 2026
Distance — 3.1 Miles
Type — Running
08:30
$25.00
Apr 11, 2026
Distance — 13.1 Miles
Type — Running
08:30
$45.00
Apr 11, 2026
Distance — 13.1 Miles
Type — Running
08:30
$25.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for April in N Topsail Beach.
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