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PITTSBURGH — P3R is proud to announce that the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon and UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon have been recognized by Runner’s World as two of the top spring races to run in 2026, placing Pittsburgh among world-renowned running destinations.

In its feature highlighting the best spring marathons around the globe, Runner’s World described Pittsburgh as “the perfect size city to host a marathon,” noting that the course “is perfectly designed to show off everything that people love about the Steel City.”

Joining legendary races like the London Marathon, Tokyo Marathon, and Los Angeles Marathon on the list, the Pittsburgh Marathon continues to gain national and international recognition as one of the most scenic, spirited, and community-driven race experiences in the country. (Read the article here.)

“To be recognized by Runner’s World alongside legendary races like London, Tokyo and Los Angeles is an incredible honor,” said Troy Schooley, P3R CEO. “Their descriptions capture exactly what makes Pittsburgh special — the bridges, the neighborhoods, the skyline, and the people who cheer runners every step of the way. Our team has worked hard to create an event that reflects the heart of this city: welcoming, inclusive, and full of pride. This recognition is a testament to the entire community that makes Marathon Weekend unforgettable year after year.”

The UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon also earned a spot on Runner’s World’s list of Top Spring Half Marathons to Run in 2026, which praises the city’s stunning backdrop and unique course design. The article notes that “the city, tucked away in the mountains at the juncture of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, is unlike anywhere else,” and that the half marathon “has been crafted meticulously to show everything the city has to offer.” Runners “cross all three rivers, pass Mt. Washington, and get stunning views of the skyline” on a loop that begins and ends downtown — with an option to take on “Back Half Marathon,” covering the second half of the full marathon route. (Read the article here.)

The Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend of Events is built on the belief that movement is for everyone. From the full and half marathons to the UPMC Health Plan / UPMC Sports Medicine Pittsburgh 5K, U. S. Steel Pittsburgh Champions Mile, Chick-fil-A Pittsburgh Kids Marathon (the largest youth running event in the country), Sheetz Pittsburgh Toddler Trot, Pittsburgh Pet Walk, GNC Pittsburgh 4-Mile Fitness Challenge, and the FedEx Pittsburgh Marathon Relay, every participant can find their place on race weekend.

Registration for the 2026 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend of Events is now open at www.thePittsburghMarathon.com.

About the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend of Events 

The Pittsburgh Marathon was held annually from 1985-2003. After a five-year hiatus, the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon was relaunched in 2009 and debuted with a sold-out field of 10,000 participants. It has grown each year since, evolving from a single race day into a weekend of events for the whole family that annually attracts more than 45,000 participants. Read more at: ThePittsburghMarathon.com

About P3R  

P3R is the region’s go-to premier sporting event and experience expert. While best known for the annual DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, P3R organizes up to 20 major events every year. With a rich history of working with top-tier clients such as the Pittsburgh Steelers, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, the Pittsburgh Penguins, the National Senior Games, and more, P3R brings operational excellence to every aspect of event planning and execution. We strive to inspire any and all to move with us. Read more at: P3R.org  

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