COLUMBUS, Ohio — The OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon and HAAS Alert have teamed up to create the inaugural First Responders Heroes Challenge at this year’s race.

What You Need To Know

  • Registration is still open for the OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon, Quarter Marathon and 5K

  • Participants can select whether to be part of the Heroes Challenge during registration

  • The goal is to continue active and healthy lifestyles among first responders both physically and mentally

The challenge will be held during the Capital City Half Marathon, Quarter Marathon and 5K in downtown Columbus on April 26. The challenge invites first responders of all fitness and experience levels to celebrate as well as encourage a healthy, active lifestyle within the first responder community. Top finishers will receive a prize.

“We are excited to announce this challenge to celebrate and promote first responders' health and wellness in the community,” said Race Director David Babner. “We are grateful for the continued support from First Responders during our running and walking events and throughout our communities and we look forward to engaging and celebrating First Responders in an elevated way this year.”

Race organizers said the goal of the Heroes Challenge is not only to encourage a healthy and active lifestyle physically, but also mentally.

“Our first responders — police, fire and 911 — proudly serve this community every day,” said Columbus Public Safety Director Kate Pishotti. “Their physical and mental wellness is a top priority for the City of Columbus. We are thrilled that Cap City is recognizing their service with the Heroes Challenge.”

Additionally, the challenge raises awareness of roadside first responder safety and driver awareness, which organizers said is a mission within the running and walking community.

“We are proud to partner with OhioHealth Capital City for a great cause and to promote first responder health and wellness, as well as to raise awareness in the community about the importance of looking out for first responders on our roadways,“ said Cory Hohs, HAAS Alert CEO. “HAAS Alert’s mission is to make sure first responders go home safely at the end of every shift, so if we can promote the importance of slowing down and moving over for those who serve and protect, we’ll run to that any day.”

Registration is open for the Capital City Half Marathon, Quarter Marathon and 5K. Participants can select whether to participate in the Heroes Challenge during the registration process.

Participants can register here.