Novant Health Charlotte Marathon has added 9,000 runners in five years
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The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon start line in 2025. Photo: Ashley Mahoney/Axios
A record 13,250 people will participate in the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon across the marathon, half marathon and 5K on Saturday.
Why it matters: Running has surged in popularity since the pandemic. Even if you aren't running one of the race distances this weekend, you probably know someone who is.
By the numbers: More than 9,000 additional runners will participate in this year's Novant Health Charlotte Marathon compared with 2021.
Zoom in: Be mindful of road closures on Saturday.
State of play: While the name and the mission remain the same, this year's participants will be the first to experience the race under new ownership.
Context: The Charlotte Sports Foundation (CSF) acquired the rights to the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon earlier this year.
- CSF is known for organizing sporting events around town, from annual college football games at Bank of America Stadium to college basketball at Spectrum Center and elite tennis events, to name a few.
- This is the organization's participatory event, meaning you're toeing the line rather than watching from the sidelines.
What to expect: There will be course changes heading into Saturday's race, namely around Miles 7–8 and Mile 24.
- The front half of the course includes an East Boulevard section and therefore less time on Morehead Street.
- The back half of the course has removed a hill just before Mile 24.
Go deeper: 2 major Charlotte Marathon course changes for 2026
- WSOC will air an hour-long recap of the race on Sunday at noon.
Yes, and: Football fans will see a familiar face at the start line — Carolina Panthers legend Luke Kuechly will serve as the grand marshal. The role is a big deal in the running world, organizers tell Axios.
- Kuechly will announce the start of each wave of runners.
Zoom out: The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon benefits the Novant Health Hemby Children's Hospital. On Wednesday, the race organizers will set up a finish line at the hospital and have the kids cross the finish line first.
The big picture: CSF brings more resources to Charlotte's hometown marathon, CSF spokesperson Miller Yoho tells Axios.
- While putting on the race includes a number of people, about 20 have been working on the race full time. Their responsibilities encompass everything from course management to operations, marketing, cheer stations, the race expo, sponsorships and safety.
- Yoho tells Axios they plan to highlight their team at the expo to remind people that the race is still owned and operated by Charlotteans.