The Pacers DC Half Marathon and 5K is pleased to announce the establishment of a new initiative, RUN IT FORWARD (RIF).

RIF is an effort to reduce financial barriers to entry and make the DCH more accessible to underrepresented and underserved communities in NOVA/DC, neighboring states and throughout the US.  
In 2026, RIF will provide complimentary entries to the Half marathon and 5K through the generosity of contributions to RIF -- to individuals who are facing financial hardship. 

Runners, partners, sponsors, and the community at large are welcome to make contributions to RIF.  The RunSignup DCH races platform can process contributions to the fund during the registration process or as stand-alone contributions as well.  

At the $40 level, one full entry will be awarded to a deserving recipient.  With our goal to help as many runners as possible, complimentary entries will be distributed at the rate the fund grows. 

If you or a deserving athlete you know wants to be considered for a complimentary entry to the half marathon or 5K , athletes are invited to complete the brief Run It Forward Athlete Survey. 

Once a survey has been submitted, the applicant will be contacted directly with next steps for completing a DCH 2026 race entry.