COLUMBUS, Ohio — The 42nd annual Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon brought more than 11,000 runners to downtown Columbus Sunday.
Over $1 million was raised during this year's race for the children's hospital. The race began at 7:30 a.m. and welcomed more than 100,000 spectators.
Since partnering with the race in 2012, Nationwide has raised $12 million to support the work being done in the children's hospital.
There were 24 Nationwide Children’s Hospital Marathon Mile Champions and their families along 24 miles of the race.
One mile was named the "Angel Mile," dedicated to the angels of Nationwide Children’s who have already run their race.
Another mile was the "Encore Mile" dedicated to the Marathon Mile Champions from previous races.
Running his first half marathon, Kevan Murphy said he decided to run for his son, Colin.
"My wife and I just had our son a year and a half ago. So, I just kind of wanted to do it for my family," Murphy said. "It's just incredibly powerful and being a first-time parent, my heart goes out to all of those great families, the children's hospital "
Top finishers
Kristoffer Mugrage, from Colorado, ended the marathon first with a time of 2:16:11. His time qualifies him for the U.S. Olympic Trials.
"I mean, I love Columbus. It's good to come back," Mugrage said after his win. "It's a great town... I'd say Chicago's got nothing on Columbus."
Sarah Biehl, of Columbus, was also a top finisher of the full marathon with a time of 2:39:01.
For the half marathon, James Ngandu, of Van Wert, and second-time Columbus winner Molly Bookmyer finished first.
Chad Johnson (2:12:32) and Matthew Davis (1:05:16) of Bowling Green, both wheelchair competitors, were top finishers for the marathon and half marathon.
“This race is a true testament of the support of our community and the hard work put in by our participants, staff and volunteers,” said Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & ½ Marathon Race Director Darris Blackford. “It is amazing to see so many people contribute to the incredible work that Nationwide Children’s Hospital is doing for so many families here in Central Ohio and around the world.”