Children's Champions

Children's Champions is the fundraising program associated with the Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon & 1/2 Marathon weekend. Runners become Children's Champions by registering as fundraisers for Nationwide Children's Hospital; signing up for a race does not automatically qualify them. No minimum fundraising amount is required, making the program accessible to marathoners, half marathoners, 5K runners, and anyone wishing to support pediatric care and research during the race weekend. The Columbus marathon weekend is the event itself, while the Children's Champions initiative focuses on training, fundraising, and racing with the hospital's children in mind. Funds raised contribute to Nationwide Children's Hospital's mission, supporting life-saving research and care. Fundraisers have the option to direct their donations to any hospital program. Since 2012, the marathon weekend has generated over $13 million for the hospital. Participants receive benefits and merchandise as they reach fundraising goals, with the core concept being to run the event, solicit donations, and direct those funds toward improved outcomes for children in Ohio and elsewhere.