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Great Balloon Chase

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Race Day

55°F

54–79°F · Feels cool

Total elevation gain

98ft

Relatively flat course · Net elevation change +16 ft

Crowd Rating

5/ 10

Good crowd energy

The Lowdown

RaceNM’s Great Balloon Chase offers a half marathon, 10K, and 5K in Albuquerque against the backdrop of the Sandia Mountains and Rio Grande Valley. The event is independent of the hot-air-balloon festival, and balloon visibility depends on weather and flight conditions.

Previous edition results — 2026

Questions about the Great Balloon Chase 2027

When is the Great Balloon Chase 2027?

Sunday, October 3, 2027.

Where is the Great Balloon Chase?

Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States.

How do I enter the Great Balloon Chase 2027?

Registration has not opened yet. Ways in: Online registration through RunSignup.

How much does the Great Balloon Chase 2027 cost?

Half Marathon: $95. 10K Run: $80. 5K Run/Walk: $70.

What is the Great Balloon Chase elevation gain?

30 m (98 ft) of total elevation gain. Net elevation change: +5 m (16 ft). Relatively flat course.

What is the Great Balloon Chase course like?

It passes Sandia Mountains backdrop and Rio Grande Valley.

What is the weather like at the Great Balloon Chase?

Race-day temperatures are usually 12–26 °C (54–79 °F). Feels cool.

Where are the Great Balloon Chase results?

The official 2026 results are on the organizer's site. Official results

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