Who We Are
Mission: To inspire and unite the community through world-class running events that celebrate health, diversity, and the spirit of Detroit.
The Detroit Free Press Marathon is Michigan’s largest road race and a celebrated community tradition since 1978. Inspired by the energy of the Falmouth Road Race, it was founded by Neal Shine, then-managing editor of the Detroit Free Press, to bring a world-class running event to Detroit. Over the years, it has grown into a multi-day international event that welcomes participants from across the globe.
The marathon is the only race in the U.S. that crosses international borders twice—through the Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor Tunnel—highlighting Detroit’s unique spirit and global connections.
What We Do
Each fall, we host a weekend of inclusive, high-energy events that celebrate health, diversity, and Detroit’s culture. With distances for every level—including a full marathon, international and U.S. half-marathons, relay, 5K, 1-mile, Kids Fun Run, and Challenge Series—we aim to create unforgettable race experiences for runners of all ages and abilities.
Through community engagement, charitable partnerships, and the support of volunteers and sponsors, we run for each other, for the city, and for the joy of movement.
