Running News Daily

Detroit Free Press Marathon announces first Kids Marathon

The Detroit Free Press Marathon is set to host the first-ever kids marathon as a part of the event.

Kids 13 and under will have the opportunity to experience a modified version of the marathon. Parents can register their children online for $25 and then download the 2023 Free Press Kids Marathon log sheet.

Participants have until Oct. 14 to log 25.2 miles, when they will then join in on the final mile of the race on Saturday morning of race weekend. Once they finish the mile, they will receive a finishers shirt, a completion medal and fun post-race celebration. In order to participate, kids must be 13 or under on Oct. 14.

Parents wanting to run the final mile with their children can register for the 1-mile race, as the two will use the same course.

"Whether they want to do a daily walk or daily run or a weekly run or jog, I think it really helps promote consistent exercise and activity leading up to a goal and that goal being 26.2 miles of activity," Aaron Velthoven, Free Press Marathon vice president and executive race director, said.

The 46th annual Free Press Marathon, a three-day event, will be Oct. 13-15. Attracting runners from all over the world, this marathon is the only race in Michigan that crosses international borders twice. Participants cross into Canada through the Ambassador Bridge and then make their way back to the United States through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. Other events include the half-marathon, U.S.-only half marathon and marathon relay, competitive 1-mile race, 5K and the Meijer Kids Fun Run.

Those interested can register online for the category of their choosing. Participants of the full marathon must be 16 or older and must be able to enter both Canada and the U.S.