The Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon is so much more than just a race.
This community celebration, held on the third Sunday of October each year, brings together athletes, families, volunteers, and spectators for a day of personal victories and support for a great cause. Whether you’re running or cheering from the sidelines, here’s your guide to making the most of this iconic Columbus event.
The Course
The course is relatively flat, offering runners a scenic tour of Columbus. Highlights include downtown landmarks like the Ohio Statehouse, German Village, and The Ohio State University campus. What makes the Columbus Marathon truly unique, though, are the 24 “Patient Champion” miles.
Each of these miles is dedicated to a child from Nationwide Children’s Hospital who stands along the course with their family to cheer on runners. Additionally, there’s an “Angel Mile” honoring children who have passed away, and an “Alumni Mile” celebrating past Marathon Mile Champions.
Spectator Tips & Race Etiquette
As a spectator, you play a key role in keeping the energy high and the atmosphere supportive. Here are a few tips for proper race etiquette:
- Stay clear of the course. Avoid stepping onto the race route to prevent obstructing runners. If you need to cross the street, use designated crossings and be mindful of participants.
- Respect runners’ space. While cheering is encouraged, try not to overwhelm runners with signs or noise too close to their faces. Be considerate and encouraging, especially as they near the finish line.
- No unsolicited assistance. While it’s tempting to help a struggling runner, unless you are an official race volunteer, providing food, drink, or other assistance is against race rules.
Supporting the Runners
The marathon is long, and runners need all the encouragement they can get. Here’s how to best support them:
- Cheer loudly and often. Your excitement can help push runners through the toughest parts of the course.
- Track your runner. Many marathons, including Columbus, offer tracking apps. This allows you to follow your runner’s progress and be at the right spot to cheer them on.
- Be positive and encouraging. Even a simple, “You’ve got this!” or “You’re amazing!” can go a long way.
Road Closures to Know About for the Columbus Marathon
If you’re attending the Columbus Marathon as a spectator, it’s important to be aware of road closures to avoid any unexpected delays. Below is a breakdown of the closures happening over race weekend:
Friday, October 18:
- 9 a.m.: Long St. closes from Hocking St. to Neil Ave. (except from 5-7 p.m. Saturday for Blue Jackets traffic), and remains closed until 6 p.m. on Sunday.
- 11:59 p.m.: Spring St. between West St. and Neil Ave. closes until 6 p.m. Sunday.
- 11:59 p.m.: Hanover and Cozzins Streets close to non-local traffic until 6 p.m. Sunday.
- 11:59 p.m.: West St. from Nationwide to Marconi and John McConnell from New Public Way to Spring St. close until 6 p.m. Sunday.
Saturday, October 19:
- 11:59 p.m.: Spring St. from Neil Ave. to Hocking St. closes until 6 p.m. Sunday.
- 11:59 p.m.: Neil Ave. south from Nationwide Blvd. reduces to one lane (for condo traffic) until 4 a.m. Sunday.
Sunday, October 20:
- 4 a.m.: Neil Ave. south from Nationwide Blvd. closes until 3 p.m. (condo traffic will use the rear entrance).
- 7:30 a.m.: Roads along the 26.2-mile marathon course and the 13.1-mile half marathon course will close either partially or fully, depending on the progress of athletes. Major roads like Spring St., Long St., and Neil Ave. are expected to reopen by 6 p.m.
Make sure to plan your routes accordingly, especially if you’re driving to spectate or participating in any race-related activities.
The Columbus Marathon isn’t just a race; it’s an event that brings out the best in the community. So, grab your signs, cheer loud, and support these athletes as they run for a great cause!
