Columbus Marathon Raises Over $1 Million

Columbus, Ohio — 42nd Annual Convention Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon carried more than 11,000 runners into downtown Columbus on Sunday.

This year’s children’s hospital competition raised over $1 million. The race started at 7:30 am and was attended by over 100,000 spectators.

Since partnering with Race in 2012, Nationwide has raised $12 million to support work being done at children’s hospitals.

Twenty-four Nationwide Children’s Hospital Marathon Mile champions and their families participated in the 24-mile race.

One mile was named “Angel Mile” and was dedicated to the children’s angels across the country who had already raced.

Another mile was the ‘Encore Mile’, dedicated to the previous marathon mile champion of the race.

Kevan Murphy, who ran his first half marathon, said he decided to run for his son Colin.

“My wife and I had a son a year and a half ago, so I just wanted to do it for my family,” Murphy said. “It’s incredibly powerful and being a first time parent my heart goes out to all the wonderful families and children’s hospitals.”

Colorado native Christopher Muglage finished the marathon first with a time of 2:16:11. His time qualifies him for the United States Olympic Trials.

“I mean, I love Columbus. It’s good to be back,” Mugrage said after the win.

Columbus’ Sarah Beale was also the top marathon finisher with a time of 2:39:01.

In the half marathon, van Wert’s James Gandu and two-time Columbus winner Molly Buchmeier were in first place.

Bowling Green’s Chad Johnson (2:12:32) and Matthew Davis (1:05:16) are wheelchair runners and top marathon and half marathon finishers.

“This race is a true testament to the support of our community and the hard work of our participants, staff and volunteers. It’s amazing to see so many people contributing to the amazing work we do for.”