Pre-Race Thoughts on the 44th Marine Corp Marathon – The People’s Marathon
By Kevin Enners
I’ve cranked in a lot of races, each one bookmarked in my heart, journaled in my blog or remembered as I put on the t-shirt from the event. The 2019 Marine Corps Marathon, I suspect, will truly be something special to memorialize and, with 18 KPeasey athletes in our nation’s capital on October 27th, the final Marine Corp for the Foundation is shaping up to be the best one yet.
What started in 2013 with a partnership between The Kyle Pease Foundation and the Ability Experience to promote inclusion and success for people with disabilities, this race has become one of the most inclusive marathons in the country. KPF was proud to have played a small part in 2013 with just three athletes - Justin Knight, Katy Freeseman and myself.
In 2018, KPF’s participation grew to 17 in-chair athletes and 141 supporters. The partnership, to date, has raised more than $500k with a staggering 300 plus disabled athletes crossing the finish line.
“They have been more than a supporter but a great partner for us in learning how to handle such large events,” added Brent, “Truly an uplifting day...not to mention the finish.”