The Detroit Free Press Marathon is seeking volunteers to help support thousands of runners during race weekend in October.
Several races will take place Oct. 16-18 for the Detroit Free Press Marathon's 49th year. Organizers say they have an increased need for volunteers on Sunday, Oct. 18, when the marathon and half-marathons – the weekend's largest races – take place. Those races are sold out.
"Volunteers are essential to the success of the Detroit Free Press Marathon," according to the event's website. "They support participants and staff by distributing bibs and goodie bags, guiding runners, providing water, and handing out medals."
No experience is needed to volunteer for the races.
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Each year, more than 3,000 volunteers are needed. According to the Detroit Free Press Marathon, volunteer opportunities include:
- Relay exchanges: Help manage exchange areas and assist runners as they hand off to teammates.
- Relay reunion: Welcome relay participants after their races, assist with food and fluids and help keep the reunion area organized.
- Start/finish line: Help manage runner flow and support runners at the beginning and end of the race. At the finish line, volunteers welcome participants with heat sheets, medals and nutrition.
- Gear check: Collect, organize and return runners’ gear before and after the race.
- Course monitors: Help keep the course safe and organized, monitor runners and spectators and report any issues to race staff.
The 2025 marathon drew about 26,000 registrants across race weekend, setting an attendance record. Organizers expect about 30,000 registrants for the 2026 race.
Volunteers are also needed for Friday, Oct. 16, and Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Kia Health & Fitness Expo, the 1-mile race, 5K, Kids Marathon and Little Detroit Dash.
According to the event organizers, volunteering can be an opportunity for sports teams, schools and clubs to complete community service hours. Individuals, groups, organizations and schools are encouraged to apply.
Those looking to volunteer must register on the Detroit Free Press Marathon website by Monday, Oct. 5.
Nour Rahal is a trending and breaking news reporter for the Detroit Free Press. Email her at nrahal@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Free Press Marathon needs over 3,000 volunteers for 2026 races
