On Saturday, September 28, the streets of downtown Akron will be alive with cheering spectators and runners as the annual Akron Marathon returns. The marathon will run right through the University of Akron’s campus. UA students and staff will adapt their routines for the event and will be actively involved by serving as volunteers and participants in the race.

The main event – the FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon and Team Relay – begins at 6:00 a.m. with an opening ceremony. Races begin at the Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High Street, Akron. The race ends at Canal Park on S. Main Street. Participants will experience a scenic route through Akron neighborhoods and past historic landmarks. Entertainment and street festivals will be held every mile of the route.

After crossing the finish line, participants are invited to celebrate their victories at the FirstEnergy Finisher Festival, which features live music, food trucks and more.

The Akron Marathon is a highlight for the city and the University of Akron plays a major role in the marathon’s success. From volunteering to participating in the race, UA students and staff are heavily involved. Whether it’s handing out water or supporting runners, their efforts are essential to the smooth running of the event.

Some will also lace up their own running shoes to participate in the race. Among them are Larry and Thomas O’Neil, twin teachers at Akron Early College High School. The O’Neils are avid runners, and Larry O’Neil has already run in the Boston Marathon.

“Boston is a magical day. You have people from all over the world, people of different abilities, different ages, the best of the best and elite runners running the same course as you,” said Larry O’Neil. “Then you have people like me who are both recreational and competitive runners. I’ve never run a full course in Akron, but this year I’m going to run the half marathon and I’m excited about it!”

“What I love most about the Akron Marathon is what it does for the city. There is so much energy and so many people come out to support,” said Thomas O’Neil. “Being born and raised in Akron, I love when the community comes together and people from outside of the city come together. It showcases our city and allows people to really see the good things Akron has to offer. One of those is the Akron Marathon.”

The marathon passes through many scenic areas of Akron, including the University of Akron campus. The marathon course offers runners and spectators views of campus landmarks. In addition to promoting health and fitness, the course helps foster a sense of community by connecting the UA to the greater Akron area.

The race has long been a highlight of Akron’s annual calendar, drawing participants from across the country and beyond. The marathon is expected to attract thousands of runners from diverse backgrounds. All participants will be united by a common goal – to finish the race and celebrate Akron’s vibrant community. For many, running across the UA campus is a reminder of the university’s significant place in the city’s culture.

For the University of Akron, the 2024 Akron Marathon is more than just a race – it’s a chance to unite the community, show school spirit and celebrate the city of Akron. Whether individuals run, volunteer or are simply active spectators of the event, the University of Akron community will be central to the marathon’s success.

For more information, to participate in the races, or to volunteer, visit www.akronmarathon.org. Follow the Akron Marathon on Instagram at @akronmarathon.

Odeliz Beltran wrote this article as part of a newswriting course at the School of Communication at the University of Akron.