April 21, 2025
2025 OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon Ignites Downtown Columbus with Unmatched Energy and a Celebration of Community and Wellness
Columbus, OH — The 2025 OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon, held on Saturday, April 26,
transformed downtown Columbus into a celebration of the healthy, active lifestyle as more
than 10,000 runners and walkers took to the streets. The event featured the Half Marathon
(13.1 miles), Quarter Marathon (6.55 miles), and Columbus Promise 5K (3.1 miles), offering
distances for participants of all levels and experiences.
First-timers were welcomed, personal bests were achieved, and athletes from 42 states and 7
countries were celebrated with a scenic tour of Columbus and a memorable post-race
celebration.
“This event was an incredible celebration of the healthy, active lifestyle,” said Race Director,
David Babner. “From the athletes to the volunteers and the OhioHealth Medical Staff and
Columbus Public Safety Team, the energy in downtown Columbus was unmatched!”
In the Half Marathon, Andrew Ye claimed victory with an impressive time of 1:09:19, averaging
a pace of 5:18 per mile. On the women’s side, Rebecca Spellman finished first with a time of
1:23:08.
In the Quarter Marathon, Ryan Heckman led with a time of 35:56 and Julia Harris took the
women’s lead with 39:27.
For the 5K, Josh Szink took first place with a time of 18:58, while Krista White led the women
with 20:52.
Black Girls RUN! National Meet-Up Highlights Inclusivity
A significant highlight of this year's race was hosting the Spring Black Girls RUN! (BGR!) National
Meet-Up. BGR!, a national organization dedicated to encouraging African American women to
prioritize fitness and healthy living, brought together members from across the country for this
special event. The meet-up featured exclusive perks for BGR! members, including a pre-race
celebration, commemorative medal, and a post-race party.
"We were thrilled to partner with Black Girls RUN! for their National Meet-Up," said David
Babner, Founder and Race Director. "It was an honor to have the energy, excitement and
sisterhood of the Black Girls RUN! at this year’s celebration.”
Inaugural First Responders Heroes Challenge Debuts
The event also marked the debut of the First Responders Heroes Challenge, powered by HAAS
Alert. This initiative invited police, fire, EMS, and 911 professionals to participate in the race,
promoting physical and mental wellness within the first responder community. Top finishers
received special recognition, and the challenge aimed to raise awareness about roadside safety
and the importance of supporting those who serve.
"Our First Responders proudly serve this community every day. Their physical and mental
wellness is a top priority for the City of Columbus," said Columbus Public Safety Director Kate
Pishotti. "We are thrilled that Cap City is recognizing their service with the Heroes Challenge."
Downtown Columbus Comes Alive
The course, dubbed the "Best Tour of Columbus" showcased the city's diverse neighborhoods
and entertainment districts. Participants and spectators alike enjoyed the lively atmosphere,
culminating in the Byers Xtra Mile Finish Line Party and PNC Post Race Concert. Complimentary
food and beverages, including Jet’s Pizza, Roosters Boneless Wings, Corona Premier Beer,
Teremana Margaritas, and Mumm Sparkling Wine, added to the festive celebration.
The 2026 OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon is set for Saturday, April 25, 2026 and
registration is now open!
For more information, visit capitalcityhalfmarathon.com.