Photo: Iurii Konoval / iStock / Getty Images
Thousands of runners filled downtown Syracuse on Sunday (March 22) for the 13th annual Syracuse Half Marathon, bringing together participants from across the United States and raising over $10,000 for local charities.
According to CNY Central, more than 3,000 people took part in the 13.1-mile race, which started at 7:30 a.m. near the Oncenter and Onondaga County War Memorial. Runners wound their way through well-known city spots like the Inner Harbor and Armory Square before looping back to the Oncenter for the finish.
Thirty-five percent of runners came from outside Onondaga County, including participants from 34 different states and even some from Canada, showing the event’s growing popularity nationwide. After crossing the finish line, athletes and supporters enjoyed an afterparty inside the Oncenter, featuring breakfast, live entertainment, vendors, and an awards ceremony.
The marathon also made a big impact off the course. Donations from the event topped $10,000, benefiting local organizations such as the Central New York Ronald McDonald House, Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital, CNY SPCA, and Meals on Wheels Syracuse. These charities support families with seriously ill children, provide health care for kids, care for animals, and deliver meals to those in need in Central New York, as described by the event’s official page.
With another successful year completed, organizers and participants look ahead to continuing the event’s tradition of promoting fitness and supporting community causes in Syracuse.