Inaugural BHM26.2 runs held downtown April 15 despite rain

The inaugural BHM26.2 -- featuring a marathon, half-marathon, team relay, 5k and fun run -- was held in downtown Birmingham on Sunday, April 15, despite cold and rain.

All proceeds from the event benefited Magic Moments, the only wish-granting organization devoted exclusively to children in Alabama with chronic life-threatening illnesses, as well as the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s of Alabama hospital.

The marathon, half marathon, relay and 5K started at 7 a.m. on First Avenue South adjacent to Railroad Park with Regions Field looming in the background.

The fun run was held at about 10 a.m.

By the time the races were over, the rain began to subside, and a well-attended after party at the 17th Street Plaza was held in bright sunshine.

The event featured food from Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q and live music.

The goal of the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders is to find cures for all children with cancer and serious blood disorders.