January 6, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2/18/2026
Columbus, OH – After an incredible first year, Black Girls RUN! (BGR!) is coming back to Columbus for its official spring National Meet-Up, held in partnership with the OhioHealth Capital City Half & Quarter Marathon and Columbus Promise 5K.
The National Meet-Up, scheduled for Saturday, April 25, will once again bring together thousands of runners and walkers from across the country for a celebration of fitness, community, and empowerment. The event features multiple distances—including the Half Marathon, Quarter Marathon, and 5K—so runners and walkers of all levels can take part.
Founded in 2009, BGR! is a national organization dedicated to motivating and encouraging African American women to lead active, healthy lives. Led by CEO Jay Ell Alexander, the organization has grown to over 250,000 members across more than 75 local chapters nationwide. The annual National Meet-Up provides a unique opportunity for members to connect, inspire, and run together while celebrating the energy and strength of the BGR! community.
“We are thrilled to welcome BGR! back to Columbus for their National Meet-Up in 2026,” said David Babner, Founder and Race Director of the OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon. “After last year’s successful collaboration, it was clear that this event has become a highlight for our city and the running and walking community. We look forward to celebrating BGR!’s mission and the spirit of inclusivity and empowerment that aligns with our race.”
The National Meet Up will include exclusive perks for BGR! participants such as "double bling" commemorative medals, pre-race event, post-race festivities, and more.
Registration for the 2026 OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon and the Black Girls RUN! National Meet-Up is open now. Participants are encouraged to register early to secure their spot and take advantage of current pricing.
For more information about the OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon, visit CapitalCityHalfMarathon.com. To learn more about Black Girls RUN!, visit www.blackgirlsrun.com.
About the OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon:
Founded in 2004, the OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon is one of the Midwest’s premier road race events, featuring the OhioHealth Capital City Half & Quarter Marathon and Columbus Promise 5K. Produced by M3S Sports, the event showcases a unique tour of Columbus and concludes with a post-race party and concert celebrating runners and walkers living a healthy, active lifestyle.
About Black Girls RUN!:
Black Girls RUN! is a national organization empowering African American women to make fitness and healthy living a priority. With over 250,000 members across the U.S., BGR! promotes community, empowerment, and wellness through running while supporting women in achieving their health goals.
Media Contact:
Danielle Wagner, Marketing & Communications
M3S Sports / OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon
ph: 330.727.4883
Danielle@M3SSports.com