The Oldest Race in the State of Indiana and the Flagship Race of our club - Indy Runners and Walkers ! Initiated in 1970 by educators and coaches from Carmel High School, and managed by our volunteer led, not-for-profit club since the early 80's, Sam Costa has the legacy, charm, and friendly participant experience you would expect from a race put on by runners for runners. The Half is a test of early season fitness for those who train all winter. The Quarter provides a distance to build on for those with aspirations for longer events later in the Spring. Either way, the Sam Costa has a place for you! There is a 3-hour time limit for the Costa. This equates to a 13:44 pace for the Half Marathon (27:28 for the Quarter). Walkers are strongly encouraged to select the Quarter Marathon. The Sam Costa is brought to you by Indy Runners and Walkers , Indiana's largest RRCA-affiliated running and walking club. All net proceeds from the race benefit the Indianapolis running and walking community
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Carmel, IN. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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Sam Costa Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon – presented by Indy Runners and Walkers 2026 — Carmel, IN
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for March 21.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Carmel, IN.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
