The Holy Half is the University of Notre Dame’s signature road race, and it delivers on the promise of running through one of the most beautiful college campuses in America. The course takes you past the Golden Dome, through the tree-lined quads, past the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, and finishes inside Notre Dame Stadium — where you cross the finish line on the same field where generations of Fighting Irish have played.
The stadium finish is the defining moment of this race and one of the most memorable finish experiences you’ll find at any half marathon. Running through the tunnel and onto the field, with the “Touchdown Jesus” mural visible on the Hesburgh Library, hits different whether you’re a Notre Dame alum or have no connection to the school at all.
The April timing catches South Bend in early spring, and the campus atmosphere on race weekend draws a mix of serious runners and Notre Dame faithful. South Bend is served by a regional airport with connections through Chicago, and the campus itself is compact enough that everything is walkable once you arrive.
