The Detroit Free Press Marathon, which this year introduced a new category of uber-competitive runners to boost the race’s prestige, said Thursday its most popular race events are sold out and are expected to set a course capacity record of more than 26,000 competitors.
Last year, organizers said, the events drew about 24,000 racers.
Runners who didn’t get to register for the race can join a limited waiting list — or join as a volunteer .
"For any runners who’ve considered taking a year off to volunteer, this might be the year," Aaron Velthoven, the marathon’s race director, said. "We consistently hear from our community that some of the greatest marathon memories are created by volunteering — helping others achieve their goals."
Velthoven credited the sellout to the Oct. 18-20 events to growing interest in the race, and in running, in general, during the pandemic.
He added that folks who didn’t get a spot can still join events, such as the 5K and 1-mile races, with openings.
This year, organizers said, was the first time the race sold out in its 47-year history, with the Marathon and International Half Marathon, the two most popular events, reaching maximum capacity, as well as the Supreme and Wonder International Challenge Series.
The international marathon — which, crosses the U.S.-Canadian border — began in 1978.
In addition to the Free Press, the weekend events are sponsored by the MSU Federal Credit Union. Organizers are expecting the addition of the elite category to the upcoming races to lead to faster and more exciting finishes, and more eyes worldwide on the race.
Contact Frank Witsil: 313-222-5022 or fwitsil@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Free Press Marathon sells out events, expecting record number of runners
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