History

The Heart & Sole Women’s Five Miler is South Carolina’s premier women’s-only road race and walk. Established in 2002, the event attracts women of all ages and athletic abilities. From elite female runners to women participating in their first formal walk, the Heart & Sole Five Miler embraces them all.

An event established by women and for women, the Heart & Sole Women’s Five Miler calls attention to the number one killer of women— heart disease. At its health and wellness expo, the Heart & Sole event offers blood pressure checks, health screenings and information on healthy living to help women protect themselves from this deadly disease.

About the Carolina Marathon Association

The Carolina Marathon Association (CMA) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, with its headquarters located in Columbia, SC. Founded in the early 1970s, CMA’s mission is to host exceptional running and fitness events to promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles.

CMA hosts two annual events: the Heart & Sole Women’s Five Miler in the spring and the Governor’s Cup Half Marathon in the fall.

During its tenure, CMA has hosted the following prestigious running events, which have brought athletes like 1984 Olympic Women’s Marathon Champion Joan Benoit Samuelson to Columbia and focused national attention on our city:

• 2001 Women's 8K National Championships

• 2000 US Olympic Team Trials - Women's Marathon

• 1999 Women's 8K National Championships

• 1998 Women's 8K National Championships

• 1997 Women's Marathon National Championships

• 1996 Women's Marathon Olympic Trials

• 1995 Women's Marathon National Championships