Sledgehammer Beach Run

 

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

 

Coming soon!

Half Marathon MapMyRun Course

10k MapMyRunCourse

5k MapMyRun Course

 

The above course maps are not an exact match to the course turnarounds but are very close. The course is measured in feet from the middle of the beach so the distance may vary if you run towards the water or near the dunes. GPS watches are not an accurate measurement of the course. 

Does everyone receive a finisher medal?
Yes, but only those that participate in the race in person or complete it virtually will receive a finisher medal. If the race is sold out and the other option to register is the no medal option then that participant will not receive a medal.

Does everyone get a race shirt?
Only those that purchase them separately. In order to keep our races affordable we have the race shirt as an optional cost.

Where does the race start and end?
Beach Access #2 
2950 Island Drive North Topsail Beach, NC

Where do I park?
You can park at Beach Access #2 (race start/finish). It is free to park. Shuttle information coming soon!

Is there a time limit?

Yes, runners must be done in 4 hours.

Are dogs allowed to run with us?
No, unfortunately our insurance does not allow dogs unless they are a certified service dog. 

Where do the proceeds go?
The proceeds are divided between us and Semper Fi & America’s Fund. Both of us are 501(c)3 non profit organizations.

Is the course all on the beach?
Yes, all three distances are on the beach.

Is the course certified?
No, the course is not certified and can vary slightly depending on the tide. 

Do you offer referral discounts?
Yes, when you register for the race, you will be given a link to send to your friends. You can earn up to $20 off your registration.

Do you offer photos?
We have volunteer photographers on the course and will post the photos on RunSignUp after the race. 

What is the JOSC Race Series?
The JOSC Race Series is a running series that was started in 2019. All races occur in Onslow County, NC and runners earn points towards being the first, second or third place winners overall. In addition you receive exclusive discounts on all the races in the series (once you race in at least one) and you receive exclusive restaurant discounts on race weekends. 

Do you offer awards?
Yes! We give first, second and third place awards in the following age groups and Top Overall to Male, Female, Male Master and Female Master.
14u

15-19

20-24

25-29

30-34

35-39

40-44

45-49

50-54

55-59

60-64

65-69

70+

 

Submit results

Virtual results will be accepted April 1st-April 11th. Click on the link below to submit.
Submit results link

Shipping medals (after results have been received)

Medals and shirts (if ordered during registration) will be sent via USPS after results have been verified starting the week after the event. 

This race is a part of the JOSC Race Series. All virtual race participants will receive 5 points towards the series. For more information about the race series go to www.racejosc.com. 

What will be in your packet? 

3" finisher medal

Bib (Virtual Bib is available under your profile in the my races section)

Finisher Certificate (Available under your profile in the my races section)

-Information from our sponsors

-Information about the JOSC Race Series and the next race in the series (Marine Chevy Shuffle) with a discount code that can be used on ANY of the races in the series.

Looking for a place to stay? Want to enjoy a delicious meal before or after the race? Check out the list of hotels and restaurants offering exclusive discounts to our race participants. 

 

Click here for list of restaurants and hotels. 

Jacksonville-Onslow Sports Commission

JOSC owns and operates multiple events that have a direct impact on sports tourism for Onslow County.  We also strive to produce funds to contribute to the promotion of other events happening within the county. We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization with a mission to foster economic impact and quality of life through sports in Jacksonville and Onslow County.