AKRON, O.H. (June 28, 2025) — The National Interstate 8k & 1 Mile drew over 2,000 participants, spanning all ages from infants in the stroller division up to 81 years old. This event marked the beginning of the Akron Marathon Race Series presented by Summa Health, taking place on Fri., June 27, 2025, and Sat., June 28, 2025. This year’s event also took on added significance as it coincided with Akron’s Bicentennial celebration, making it a truly special moment to honor the city’s legacy.
“This year’s event was especially meaningful as we celebrated not only our participants, volunteers, and sponsors, but also Akron’s Bicentennial,” said Anne Bitong, president and CEO of the Akron Marathon Charitable Corporation. “Bringing people together through movement and community pride is at the core of our mission, and it was inspiring to see that come to life across every mile.”
Kyle Stober from Mogadore secured the 8k victory in the men’s division of the National Interstate 8k, while Jo Line from Akron triumphed in the women’s division.
Nick Marino from Stow and Hannah Long from Akron dominated in the 1 Mile race.
In the non-binary category, Eva Nel Brettrager from Brunswick claimed first place in the 1 Mile, continuing to highlight the Akron Marathon’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and representation.
“As presenting sponsor of the Akron Marathon Race Series, Summa Health is proud to support an event that encourages healthy lifestyles and brings our community together,” said Cliff Deveny, M.D., president and CEO of Summa Health. “Seeing participants of all backgrounds and abilities come together on race day is a powerful reminder of what it means to build a stronger, healthier community.”
The course for the National Interstate 8k & 1 Mile began by highlighting The University of Akron’s campus, offering a unique foot tour of downtown Akron, and ended with a memorable finisher’s festival featuring food trucks, live music, and more.
“National Interstate is proud to renew our sponsorship of the 8k & 1 Mile events as part of the Akron Marathon Race Series,” said Shawn Los, president and chief operating officer at National Interstate Insurance Company. “This event offers a great opportunity to encourage health and wellness, both within our company and across the community. We’re thrilled to see so many employees and their families getting involved and staying active.”
The winners included:
Men’s 8k:
- Kyle Stober, Mogadore, 26:24.3
- Dylan Garritano, Akron, 26:38.4
- Jake Suttell, Akron, 26:47.8
Women’s 8k:
- Jo Line, Akron, 29:42.6
- Alissa Kolarik, Wadsworth, 31:35.2
- Brittany Valentine, Hudson, 31:55.3
Men’s Masters 8k:
- Damon Blackford, Akron, 31:58.5
- Monnie McBride, Windham, 32:03.4
- John Zaranec, Chagrin Falls, 32:06.0
Women’s Masters 8k:
- Becki Spellman, Galloway, 32:50.0
- Lauren Sajovie, Hudson, 33:38.0
- Charlene Schultz, Akron, 33:39.4
Men’s 1 Mile:
- Nick Marino, Stow, 4:36
- Jake Suttell, Akron, 4:37
- Charles Novak, Cuyahoga Falls, 4:43
Women’s 1 Mile:
- Hannah Long, Akron, 4:49
- Joanna Consiglio, Seven Hills, 5:34
- Grace Powderly, Cuyahoga Falls, 5:39
Men’s Masters 1 Mile:
- Derek Losh, Mogadore, 5:19
- Craig Melzer, Kent, 5:41
- Andy Burkhart, Dawson, PA, 5:57
Women’s Masters 1 Mile:
- Laura Pawar, Medina, 6:20
- Holly Wierzbicki, Uniontown, 6:25
- Erin Lewis, Cleveland, 6:55
Non-Binary 1 Mile:
- Eva Nel Brettrager, Brunswick, 15:37
Race registration and volunteer opportunities for the remaining two-race series events can be found at AkronMarathon.org. The Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k is set to take place on Aug. 9, 2025, and the marquee event, the FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon, & Team Relay, will be held on Sept. 27, 2025.
For more information about the Akron Marathon Race Series presented by Summa Health, please visit AkronMarathon.org.