Seaside School Half Marathon 2026 Cancelled: What Runners Need to Know

The 2026 Seaside School Half Marathon was canceled due to severe weather, marking the first cancellation in its 24-year history. This decision, made on February 15, prioritized the safety of participants, volunteers, and staff after forecasts predicted strong winds, heavy rain, and lightning. The event, a major fundraiser for the Seaside School Foundation, was set to support over 600 students at two top-performing public charter schools in Florida.

Key details:

• No refunds: As a charity event, refunds are not typically issued. Participants with event insurance should check their policies.
• Donation option: Registration fees can be converted into donations to support the Seaside School Foundation.
• Alternative races: Nearby events like the Viking 5K & 10K (Feb. 21) and Fort Mardi Gras Fun 5K (Feb. 28) offer runners other opportunities.

The cancellation impacts local businesses and the foundation's funding. Organizers are committed to bringing the event back in 2027. For updates, visit RunSeasideFL.com.

Why the 2026 Race Was Canceled

Official Statement from Event Organizers

The decision to cancel the race came down to safety. Severe weather, including strong winds, heavy rain, and lightning, posed significant risks. Meteorologist Chris Smith from Panhandle Weather, along with local authorities, confirmed these conditions. The Walton County Sheriff's Office and Walton County Fire District backed the organizers' choice to prioritize safety over proceeding with the event.

The weather wasn't just a minor inconvenience - it affected every aspect of the race. From early morning road closures at 5:30 AM to the deployment of over 500 volunteers across the 13.1-mile course, the forecasted conditions made operations unsafe and unmanageable. While organizers briefly considered a shortened course, the combination of timing issues and the severity of the weather made it impossible to move forward.

Additional Challenges That Influenced the Decision

The weather wasn’t the only hurdle. Logistical complications further complicated the event. Closing County Highway 30A from 5:30 AM to 10:00 AM for 4,000 runners was already a complex operation. On top of that, the weather would have compromised medical support and emergency response capabilities, making it impossible to ensure the safety of participants and volunteers alike.

Refund Process and Options for Registered Participants

How to Request a Refund

The Seaside School Half Marathon follows a strict no-refund policy. As a "rain or shine charity event", refunds are not provided, even in cases of bad weather. This policy also applies to the cancellation of the 2026 event.

Organizers will share updated refund procedures by the morning of February 16, 2026. For the latest information, visit RunSeasideFL.com.

If you opted for event insurance during registration, it’s worth reviewing your policy details. Your insurance may cover non-attendance due to cancellation.

Donation Option to Support Local Schools

If a refund isn’t available, participants can choose to turn their registration fees into a donation. Since proceeds from the event benefit the Seaside School Foundation, this option allows participants to support the Seaside Neighborhood School and Seacoast Collegiate High School, which educate nearly 440 students across two campuses.

"Every year the gap between the SEASIDE SCHOOL™ standard of excellence and the funding provided by the state grows. Whether you're a runner or sponsor, please know that your support is needed and appreciated."

• SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Half Marathon + 5K

To donate, participants can use the "Donate" button on the event's registration platform, RunSignup. There’s also an option to "Become a Fundraiser" and gather additional contributions from friends and family. Since this annual fundraiser is the foundation’s main source of income, the cancellation could significantly impact funding for these schools.

Alternative Races in South Walton and the 30A Area

With the marathon canceled, runners in South Walton and the 30A area still have plenty of options to stay active and connected with the local running community. Whether you’re looking for organized races or scenic training routes, this region has something to keep your fitness goals on track.

For a full list of upcoming events, check out the SoWal Events Calendar. It’s a great resource for finding races and other activities happening across South Walton.

Seaside 5K Series Events

If shorter races are more your style, the Seaside 5K Series is a fantastic way to stay involved. While the marathon won’t be happening, the Seaside Athletic Club is stepping up with group fitness and wellness sessions to help runners maintain their momentum. These sessions are designed to bring back that race-day energy while fostering a sense of community among participants.

Trail Running at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

For those who prefer a more flexible training approach, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers a variety of trails perfect for mixing up your routine. The park’s natural beauty and diverse terrain make it an ideal spot for runners adjusting their plans.

Looking for a longer, uninterrupted route? The Timpoochee Trail stretches 18.5 miles along Scenic Highway 30A, providing a traffic-free, paved path that connects several beach communities. Or, if off-road adventures are more your speed, Point Washington State Forest offers fantastic trail running options through its peaceful wooded areas.

Whether you’re sticking to structured events or embracing unstructured training, South Walton has everything you need to keep moving this spring.

How to Adjust Your Training Plan After a Race Cancellation

A canceled race can feel like a setback, but your hard work hasn’t gone to waste. Training adaptations usually take six to eight weeks to reflect in your performance. That means all the progress you’ve made is still there, and with a few tweaks, you can keep the momentum going.

Set New Running Goals

If your race was just one to three weeks away, your fitness is likely at its peak. This is the perfect time to put your training to the test with a solo effort. Choose a flat, safe route and run a time trial at about 95% effort. Whether it’s a half marathon, 5K, or 10K, this can help you gauge where you stand.

Another option? Join a virtual race or Strava challenge to stay motivated and keep your competitive spirit alive.

If you’ve found a replacement race that’s at least four weeks away, consider adding a sharpening phase to fine-tune your readiness. For races scheduled sooner - within one to three weeks - you could extend your taper by repeating the second-to-last training week while slightly increasing intensity. Keep in mind that your overall weekly mileage matters more than any single workout. After setting your goals, shift your focus to balancing cross-training and recovery.

Add Cross-Training and Recovery Time

This unexpected downtime is a chance to address areas that may have been overlooked. Speed-focused runners could build their aerobic base with easy miles, while endurance runners might benefit from adding explosive efforts like hill sprints, plyometrics, or running drills. It’s worth noting that over half of marathon runners typically miss at least seven consecutive days of training during a cycle.

Take this time to focus on injury prevention, too. Incorporate activities like yoga, foam rolling, and exercises that strengthen your hips, glutes, and core. Dr. Stephen Gonzalez, a Mental Performance Consultant at Dartmouth College, offers a helpful perspective:

"Reconnect with your 'why' and move forward with a greater sense of love and joy for running. Rather than focusing on an accomplishment or an outcome, let it be a process of pushing yourself and adapting to what life throws at you".

This mindset can help you stay grounded and motivated as you adjust to the change in plans.

Community Impact and the Future of Events in South Walton

Economic and Social Effects on South Walton

The cancellation of South Walton's largest annual event has created immediate ripple effects for the local economy and community. This race typically draws over 12,000 attendees, with around 4,000 runners and their families filling Seaside's commercial downtown. Local businesses, especially those in the hospitality sector, were counting on the boost from the event. The loss of the "Taste of the Race" culinary showcase, which features Gulf Coast chefs and local restaurants, adds to the financial strain on the area’s dining and hospitality industries.

This race wasn’t just about economic benefits - it was also a major fundraiser for the Seaside School Foundation. The event’s proceeds are vital for supporting academic programs for over 600 students. Without these funds, the foundation faces challenges in maintaining its programs. Dr. Tom Miller, Executive Director of SEASIDE SCHOOL™, emphasized the event's importance:

"The philanthropic impact of this race cannot be overstated. Each year, funds raised allow us to provide students with a unique, personalized learning experience that prepares them for college, careers, and beyond".

The cancellation also interrupts the influx of high-spending sports tourists, as the race is a USATF-certified qualifier for the New York City and Chicago Marathons. This setback highlights how deeply intertwined the event is with both the local economy and community services.

The Future of the Seaside School Half Marathon

Despite the challenges, there’s determination to bring the event back stronger. Organizers and community leaders are already laying plans for its return. Kevin Boyle, General Manager of the SEASIDE® Community Development Corporation, reflected on the event's importance:

"The SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Half Marathon + 5K embodies the spirit of our community. This event not only showcases the vitality and beauty of SEASIDE® but also highlights the strong relationship between the school and our vibrant commercial downtown, reflecting our shared commitment to excellence and growth".

To address the immediate funding gap, the foundation continues to accept donations, ensuring the school - ranked among the top 1% of Florida public schools - can maintain its high academic standards. With over 500 volunteers typically involved in the race, the community's strong support provides hope for the event’s future. This collective effort underscores the resilience and commitment of South Walton to preserve both its traditions and its educational priorities.

Conclusion

For the first time in its 24-year history, the 2026 Seaside School Half Marathon was canceled due to severe weather conditions. While this decision was undoubtedly disappointing, it reflected a clear priority: the safety of runners, volunteers, and the South Walton community.

An update on the official medal distribution is expected on February 16, 2026. For those eager to lace up their running shoes, consider participating in the Viking 5K & 10K in Panama City on February 21, 2026, or the Fort Mardi Gras Fun 5K in Fort Walton Beach on February 28, 2026. You can also explore additional options in the Alternative Races section above.

Despite the setback, the event's mission to support local education remains strong. Fundraising efforts continue to benefit the Seaside School Foundation, which supports one of Florida's top-performing public schools - ranked in the top 1% statewide.

Looking ahead, the event is expected to make a strong comeback in 2027. With a legacy spanning over two decades and a community dedicated to education and athletic excellence, the foundation for future success is as solid as ever. This temporary challenge is just a small chapter in a long tradition of resilience and community spirit. Stay tuned to sowal.co for updates on the race's return, training opportunities, and other exciting events along the 30A corridor. The South Walton community stands ready to embrace the future and continue this cherished tradition.

FAQs

Will my 2026 race entry transfer to 2027?

Your entry for the 2026 race won’t automatically carry over to 2027 because the event has been canceled. To figure out your options for a refund or transfer, reach out directly to the race organizers. They’ll guide you on what to do next.

How can I get my packet, shirt, and medal after the cancellation?

The Seaside School Half Marathon 2026 has been canceled, and there are no arrangements for distributing packets, shirts, or medals. Refunds and packet pickups will not be provided. For any updates or potential alternatives, participants are encouraged to monitor the event’s official communication channels or reach out to the organizers directly. However, no alternative plans are currently available.

Can I still support the Seaside School Foundation if I can’t run?

Yes, you can still support the Seaside School Foundation in meaningful ways like fundraising, donations, or other charitable contributions. These efforts directly help fund educational programs and initiatives, even if you’re unable to join the race.

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