AKRON, Ohio (June 14, 2023) — The Akron Marathon Race Series presented by Summa Health is excited to welcome runners embarking on their summer racing journeys, starting with the National Interstate Friday evening 1 Mile on June 23, 2023, at 7 p.m., followed by the 8k on Saturday, June 24, 2022, at 7:30 a.m.

The Akron-based nonprofit Akron Marathon Charitable Corporation continues to foster inclusivity, encouraging individuals of all fitness levels to participate. In this three-event race series, with a diverse range of distances from 1 mile to a full marathon, participants are encouraged to select the race series distances that align with their personal goals.

The National Interstate 8k & 1 Mile will feature a scenic course that winds through the heart of downtown Akron. Participants can expect a well-organized, professional event with support from dedicated volunteers. The National Interstate 8k & 1 Mile offers a unique opportunity for both seasoned runners and beginners to challenge themselves and achieve their fitness goals.

“National Interstate is excited to kick off the Akron Marathon Race Series again in 2023!  We are honored to be a part of this alongside Goodyear, FirstEnergy, and Summa Health. Summit County and the City of Akron are filled with amazing organizations and people. We look forward to a great turnout for this series!”

For optimal points and tips to view the runners in action, spectators can position themselves:

  • Watching runners begin on Spicer St., just outside InfoCision Stadium.
  • After the start, walk to Coleman Commons to the finish line on Carroll St., just beyond the Student Union.
  • For the 1 Mile, spectators wishing to see the finish may need to head to the finish line before the start of the race, as it is a half-mile away.

“Summa Health is dedicated to elevating the health of our community and we are proud to once again support the Akron Marathon Race Series,” said Dr. Cliff Deveny, Summa Health president and CEO. “Together, with the Akron Marathon, we hope to inspire active lifestyles and build a stronger Akron, one step at a time. Good luck to everyone racing this season.”

Volunteer opportunities are still available for the June 23 and 24 events as well as the full race series. As a volunteer for the Akron Marathon Race Series presented by Summa Health, individuals and groups have the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the Greater Akron community, share skills/talents, and help make races successful world-class events for runners, their families, spectators, and the City of Akron.

If you would like additional information on volunteering, please email Katie Riley, Community Outreach Director, or call the Marathon office at (330) 434-2786.

Save the date for the much-anticipated Goodyear Half Marathon and 10k on Aug. 12, 2023. Additionally, mark your calendars for the marquee event, the 21st running of the FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon, and Team Relay, which will bring runners to the streets of Akron along the Blue Line on Sept. 30, 2023.

For more information about the Akron Marathon Race Series presented by Summa Health, please visit AkronMarathon.org.