Empowering teens to discover they're capable of extraordinary things.

About Marathon High​

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Founded in 2011, Marathon High is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering high school students across Northeast Florida through the transformative power of distance running, mentorship, and goal setting.

 

Each season, students in grades 9–12 spend 16 weeks training alongside dedicated volunteer coaches and adult mentors to accomplish something many never imagined possible—completing a 13.1-mile half marathon. Along the way, they build confidence, resilience, healthy habits, meaningful friendships, and the belief that they can overcome challenges both on and off the course.

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Marathon High is completely free for students and participating schools. We welcome teens of all backgrounds, abilities, and experience levels, creating an inclusive environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed. Whether they're experienced runners or putting on running shoes for the very first time, our program proves that success isn't measured by speed—it's measured by perseverance, commitment, and personal growth.

 

While running is what brings us together, our mission reaches far beyond the finish line. Marathon High helps students develop leadership skills, strengthen their mental and physical well-being, build lasting relationships, and discover the confidence to pursue ambitious goals throughout their lives. Every practice, every mile, and every challenge reinforces one powerful lesson: they are capable of more than they ever imagined.

 

Since 2011, more than 3,000 Northeast Florida students have crossed the finish line through Marathon High. For every one of them, that finish line marked the beginning of something even greater—a healthier future, greater confidence, and the belief that extraordinary things are possible.