News

PITTSBURGH – P3R today announced that DICK'S has renewed its title sponsorship of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon for an additional two years, reinforcing a longstanding partnership that has helped elevate the event into a nationally recognized running experience. 

The renewal comes as the 2026 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend is set to be the largest in event to date, with more than 50,000 participants expected across all races and programming.

When the marathon returned in 2009 after a five-year hiatus, DICKS stepped forward as the title partner, helping reestablish the event and position it for long-term growth. Since then, the race has evolved into a multi-day celebration of movement, welcoming participants of all ages, abilities, and experience levels.

“From the very beginning, DICKS believed in what the Pittsburgh Marathon could become,” said Troy Schooley, P3R CEO. “Together, we’ve built more than a race—we’ve created a premier destination that reflects the energy of this city and the strength of this community. This renewal allows us to continue growing and delivering an experience that is truly for everyone.” 

P3R has remained committed to creating a marathon weekend experience for everyone—whether it’s a first-time 5K participant, a seasoned marathoner, or a young runner crossing their first finish line. That commitment is evident in the continued growth of youth programming, including the Chick-fil-A Pittsburgh Kids Marathon—now the largest youth running event in the country—and its pipeline opportunities that keep kids engaged and active as they progress to longer distances like the 5K.

“At DICK’S, we believe sports have the power to change lives, and every year we see that belief come to life during Marathon Weekend,” said Mark Rooks, VP of Creative, Sponsorship and Entertainment at DICK’S. “This event is about resilience, possibility and community. We’re incredibly grateful to P3R for the partnership and are excited to continue building on what we’ve created together here in Pittsburgh.” 

The continued partnership underscores the vital role of community support in the event’s success. From volunteers and event staff to city officials, public safety teams, and neighborhood cheer groups, Marathon Weekend is powered by thousands who come together to create an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike.

“What makes Pittsburgh great is our community and our shared drive to be the best,” Schooley added. “We’re incredibly grateful to DICK’S and to everyone who plays a role in making Marathon Weekend possible. This event is for everyone, and we hope it inspires people of all ages and abilities to get moving.”

The 2026 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend will take place May 1–3, featuring a full schedule of races and events designed to inspire participants and celebrate the spirit of Pittsburgh. For more information, visit 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 50,000 runners. 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. As part of P3R’s non-profit mission to inspire any and all to MOVE with us, we provide premium event experiences and robust programming - including the Run for a Reason Charity Program, award-winning Kids of STEEL program, Pittsburgh Corporate Challenge, RUN Varsity, and more - that engage everyone in the Western Pennsylvania community and beyond.