Thousands of runners are set to transform downtown Akron as they take part in the 23rd Akron Marathon this weekend. This year’s race will feature a new route, celebrating Akron’s rich heritage and its bicentennial anniversary by taking participants past some of the city’s most notable cultural landmarks.
The new course begins at the Akron Art Museum and concludes near the Akron Civic Theatre, offering runners a scenic view of the city’s renowned sites. Allyse Love, a dedicated participant and volunteer since the marathon’s inception, is thrilled about the reimagined course. Her agency, Art X Love, has created a mural to commemorate both the marathon and Akron’s 200th year.
Jeannine Marks, co-founder of the race, highlighted the significance of this year’s event. “We’re stepping it up, it’s a little bit different,” she mentioned, pointing out new features such as shirts and medals adorned with a bicentennial mark. Reflecting on the event’s growth from 3,000 to almost 15,000 participants over the years, Marks expressed delight at how the marathon not only promotes health and fitness but also unites the community.
Among this year’s runners is Akron native Jim Ballard, who praises his hometown marathon as one of the best. “It’s our hometown, and it’s just a beautiful thing,” he said, emphasizing his excitement about the new course.
Beyond the race itself, the Akron Marathon generates a significant economic impact, contributing over $6 million to the local area annually. Yet, it’s the community spirit and camaraderie that make the event truly special. Allyse Love encapsulated this sentiment, calling the marathon her favorite day of the year, filled with the electric spirit of Akron and its people.
Runners will kick off this memorable race weekend on Saturday, September 27 at 7 a.m., marking another chapter in Akron’s history and showcasing the vibrant community spirit that defines the city.