Downtown Columbus will be full of activity this coming weekend thanks to the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon. While the marathon and the 1/2 marathon take center stage, several other events will take place this weekend including a kids run, a 5k race and a 1-mile run. Think of all the feet that will be pounding the pavement in support of the hospital!

Some of those feet will belong to our team members. As a whole, we are all supporting the marathon weekend through our sponsorship. Some of us will support virtually. Others will be right here in the middle of the action. Look for them in blue shirts along the course!

We asked some of our team member supporters and participants to weigh in on why this race and cause is special to them. Keep reading to take in their sentiments!

I wanted to get back to running and preparing for this event has kept be motivated all year long. In previous years, as a runner or volunteer, it’s always been such a heartwarming experience. Nationwide Children’s Hospital does incredible things and I’m so glad I can support the cause. –Shirley Boatright

I always do the Nationwide Half-Marathon for a handful of reasons: 1.) I have always enjoyed running for physical activity and for stress relief. 2.) I like the Nationwide Half-Marathon in particular as it is our home city, is a nice flat course, and the race goes through some great areas and neighborhoods in Columbus. 3.) And most importantly, it is a very inspiring race.  To see the “Marathon Mile Champions” at every mile is very inspirational.  They show so much bravery and strength, so it is a good feeling to support this race and the cause.- Mark Welp

I’ve had the privilege to participant in the NWCH Marathon/Half Marathon weekend a few times now and the atmosphere in downtown Columbus on race day is unmatched. It has been a goal of mine for a few years to complete a full Marathon and I love that I get to cross this goal off of my list while also supporting the kids over at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.- Jennie Severt

Unfortunately I didn’t sign up in time before the race sold out. However, I was thrilled to see that H&M was sponsoring the race and had to get a shirt. The Nationwide Children’s Marathon is my absolute favorite race. I’ve completed various marathons all across the country and the atmosphere here at Columbus is really special. Hopefully next year I sign up in time!- Wes Wunderlich 

It means so much to me that H&M supports Nationwide Children’s Hospital in so many ways. As a parent that has had to turn to NCH for care for my children on more than one occasion, I appreciate how much support race weekend provides to such a special place. If you want to be inspired, read about the Marathon Miles Children that will line the course on race day. Meet them here    -Molly Pensyl 

Learn more about race weekend at the link below. In addition to keeping an eye out for our participants, stop by our band stand sponsorship location along High Street. Best of luck to everyone running and supporting this weekend!

Marathon | Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon