The Detroit Free Press Marathon: Empowering Detroit’s Youth through Running

Jan 24, 2025News

The Detroit Free Press Marathon is more than just a race – it’s a community-driven initiative that is making a real difference in the lives of Detroit’s youth. As the largest international race in North America, the Detroit Free Press Marathon has partnered with the Detroit public school system to get more kids active and engaged in the sport of running. Over 250 students from the district are now participating in the marathon program, receiving the proper running shoes and training to prepare for the big event. This is an incredible opportunity for these young people to not only challenge themselves physically, but also to develop important life skills like goal-setting, endurance, and a healthier lifestyle. As one student shared, “Running a marathon is an accomplishment because I feel like I did a lot to get here. I feel like I’m in the big leagues.” The sense of pride and achievement these students will feel upon crossing the finish line is truly inspiring. This partnership is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the transformative impact they can have on young lives. Kudos to the Detroit Free Press Marathon for their commitment to empowering Detroit’s youth through the joy of running.