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Columbus Marathon to run through Upper Arlington Sunday; organizers add Golden Bear Square and student volunteers
Summary
Darris Blackford, race director, told council the Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon will pass through Upper Arlington Sunday with roughly 15,000 total participants (5,000 marathon entrants); organizers created 'Golden Bear Square' near Jones Middle School and highlighted student and community volunteer involvement.
Darris Blackford, race director for the Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon, updated Upper Arlington council on Oct. 13 on route details and local plans for the coming Sunday.
Blackford said the event this year will include about 15,000 participants overall, including roughly 5,000 marathon runners, and that the lead marathoners should reach Upper Arlington around 8:30 a.m. with the last walkers leaving the city by about 12:30 p.m. "We have 15,000 participants this year, 5,000 in the marathon," he said, and noted that, for a few hours, the event substantially increases local foot traffic.
Organizers are introducing a new community area called "Golden Bear Square" along the route near Jones Middle School on the west side; a patient from Nationwide Children's Hospital (a student named Parker from Hastings Middle School) will be present and local booster and community groups will participate. Blackford thanked Sergeant Walker of the Upper Arlington Police Department and said course safety is coordinated with Columbus Police and Fire.
Blackford emphasized cleanup and neighbor consideration after the race: organizers drive the course pre- and post-event to remove trash and ensure the area is left in good condition. He invited questions and council members thanked the organizers for the community emphasis and volunteer opportunities for local youth.
No council action was required; the presentation was informational.
