Earn Your Phidippides Award in 2026 with Waldorf Runners

Waldorf Runners
5 hours ago
3 min read

The Waldorf Runners Phidippides Award offers a fun and motivating way to track your race achievements throughout 2026. You can earn points based on the distances you complete to qualify for bronze, silver, or gold awards tailored to your age group. Whether you are a casual walker or a seasoned marathoner, we hope this fun program encourages you to stay active and celebrate your progress.

Eye-level view of a runner crossing a race finish line with a timing clock overhead — Runner finishing a race with official timing

How the Phidippides Award Works

The award system is simple and designed to reward participation in a variety of race distances. Each officially recorded race you complete in 2026 earns you points based on the distance covered (yes races count from earlier in the year). The points are assigned as follows:

1 mile to 4 km: 1 point
5 km to 5 miles: 2 points
10 km to 15 km: 3 points
10 miles to half marathon: 4 points
25 km to marathon: 5 points
Greater than marathon: 6 points

This tiered system allows runners and walkers of all levels to accumulate points. For example, if you complete a 5 km race and a half marathon, you would earn 2 points plus 4 points, totaling 6 points toward your award.

Points Required by Age Group

The Phidippides Award recognizes different age groups with varying point thresholds for bronze, silver, and gold levels. This ensures fair competition and motivation across all ages. Here are the point requirements:

|-----------|-------|--------|--------|

| 20 - 39 | 18 pts| 15 pts | 8 pts |

| 40 - 59 | 15 pts| 12 pts | 6 pts |

| 60 - 79 | 12 pts| 9 pts | 5 pts |

| 80+ | 6 pts | 5 pts | 3 pts |

For instance, a runner aged 45 needs 15 points to earn the gold award. This could be achieved by completing three half marathons (4 points each) and a 5 km race (2 points), totaling 14 points, plus a 1 mile race (1 point) to reach 15 points.

How to Submit Your Results

Tracking your progress is easy. After completing your races, submit your official race results by email to WaldorfRunnersMD@gmail.com. The Waldorf Runners team will keep track of your points and update your score throughout the year. This system applies to both running and walking events, so everyone can participate.

If you have any questions about the award or the submission process, you can contact Gibran Holmes by text or call at 240-583-0714. This direct line ensures you get timely answers and support.

High angle view of a race bib and running shoes on a wooden floor — Race bib and running shoes ready for a race

Tips to Maximize Your Points in 2026

To earn your Phidippides Award, consider these practical strategies:

Plan your race calendar early: Look for races of varying distances throughout the year to accumulate points steadily.
Mix walking and running events: Both count toward your total, so choose events that suit your fitness level and schedule.
Aim for longer distances when possible: Longer races earn more points, so training for a half marathon or marathon can boost your score quickly.
Keep official race records: Ensure your race results are verifiable to avoid delays in point tracking.
Stay consistent: Regular participation increases your chances of reaching your target points before the year ends.

Why Join the Phidippides Award Challenge?

This award program motivates you to stay active and celebrate your achievements in a supportive community. It adds a layer of fun to your race participation and encourages you to push your limits safely. The tiered points system and age-specific goals make it accessible for all fitness levels and ages.

By joining, you also connect with other Waldorf Runners who share your passion for running and walking. The program fosters camaraderie and healthy competition, making your fitness journey more enjoyable.

Get Ready for 2026

The Waldorf Runners Phidippides Award is a great way to set goals and track your progress in 2026. Whether you are new to racing or a veteran, this program offers clear milestones and recognition for your efforts. Keep an eye out for the official flyer coming soon, which will provide additional details and inspiration.

Start planning your races now, and remember to submit your results promptly. Your next race could bring you closer to earning your bronze, silver, or gold Phidippides Award.