Honor the Light

This year’s theme, Honor the Light, celebrates the enduring legacy of America’s coastal guardians—our historic lighthouses and the courageous lightkeepers who guided mariners safely home for generations. Like the U.S. Coast Guard, these beacons of light represent vigilance, service, and unwavering dedication in the face of the unknown.

Honor the Light – 2026 Coast Guard Marathon Official T-Shirt

A Medal That Honors the Light

The 2026 Coast Guard Marathon medals continue the Honor the Light theme by featuring North Carolina’s most iconic beacon—Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. More than 230 years ago, conversations began that would lead to the construction of this legendary light, built to protect one of the most treacherous stretches of the Atlantic coast.

The medal’s design tells a story of past and present. The front showcases Cape Hatteras in its original paint scheme, honoring its early history. The medal then opens to reveal the modern black-and-white lighthouse we recognize today—symbolizing resilience, evolution, and the Coast Guard’s enduring mission.

For full and half marathon finishers, the lighthouse comes to life with a blinking light, while medals for all three distances glow in the dark—serving as a lasting reminder that every runner carries the light forward.

Semper Paratus Challenge Coin:

This swag item is earned by Semper Paratus Challenge finishers and honors the proud heritage, readiness, and service of the United States Coast Guard. Inspired by the service’s enduring motto—Always Ready—this commemorative coin symbolizes commitment to duty, resilience in adversity, and unwavering dedication to those who protect our coasts and waterways. The Semper Paratus Challenge invites athletes to test their limits and rise to the challenge by completing two Coast Guard Marathon races in one weekend—beginning with the 5K on Saturday and returning Sunday to complete either the half or full marathon, while junior challengers (ages 12 and under) complete the 5K and 1K Fun Run. Designed as a lasting keepsake, the coin represents perseverance, honor, and achievement, and is earned alongside medals for both races, an official Coast Guard Marathon shirt, a special gift, and well-earned bragging rights—marking the moment challengers prove they are truly Always Ready to endure, achieve, and lead.