Grand Rapids Kids Marathon 2026

The Grand Rapids Kids Marathon allows children ages 2 to 12 to complete a marathon incrementally, finishing on the Grand Rapids Marathon course. Children record 25 miles on a log sheet, counting each half mile of running or walking, or 15 minutes of activity, towards their goal. The concluding 1.2 miles take place on the Saturday preceding the main marathon. Each registered child receives a race bib and T-shirt, followed by a medal and certificate upon finishing. The final run commences and concludes at the official Grand Rapids Marathon start/finish line, situated near the David D. Hunting YMCA, within the DeVos lot of GVSU in Grand Rapids. The series also offers families opportunities to engage in physical activity before race weekend, such as a Kickoff Run at Millennium Park and an Obstacle Course Run at John Ball Zoo. Family Capital Management sponsors the event, with Sara Merritt as race director.