2025 Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon: A Homegrown Event with National Reach and Lasting Local Impact

This isn’t just the toughest road marathon in America. It’s one of the most powerful weekends of the year for Roanoke—fueling our economy, energizing our streets, and reminding us why we love this place. Under clear blue skies, the 2025 Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon brought thousands of runners, volunteers, and spectators together to celebrate community, challenge, and the spirit of the Blue Ridge.

A Weekend of Wins—On and Off the Course

Perfect running weather inspired a flood of course PRs as athletes conquered America’s Toughest Road Marathon with grit and joy. A new course re-route through Highland Park brought fresh scenery and renewed community energy, complete with beloved rogue aid stations offering everything from snacks to saxophone solos. These unsanctioned but spirited stops reflected the grassroots charm that sets this event apart.

The Hip Abduction’s vibrant performance (headline event for the Freedom First Down by Downtown Festival) turned the finish line at Elmwood Park into a celebration zone with immaculate vibes. And the next day, the Slow K (presented by official shoe sponsor, Altra) at Black Dog Salvage kept the fun going—proving that the Blue Ridge spirit is really all about completing, not competing.

Economic and Charitable Impact

In just one weekend, the marathon generated:

• $1.7 million in economic impact for the Roanoke Region ($12.9 million cumulative since 2010)
• $10,700 donated to local charities ($236,950 total since inception)
• Representation from 40 states, bringing new visitors and attention to our region
• Support from 551 dedicated volunteers (filling 599 total shifts), powering the event and welcoming participants like family

More Than a Race—A Showcase for Roanoke

Few events introduce Roanoke to newcomers—and reconnect locals to what they love—quite like this one. The community comes together to roll out the red carpet—not just for runners, but for their families, travel companions, and supporters who explore our restaurants, breweries, trails, and cultural assets while they’re here.

Locals, too, find themselves re-inspired. Whether volunteering at an aid station, running a first relay leg, or just soaking in the energy downtown, residents reconnect with the region’s beauty, hospitality, and active lifestyle. These small moments become lasting impressions—and turn participants and volunteers into ambassadors for Roanoke.

To generate this level of economic, charitable, and emotional impact in one weekend, through a homegrown event, is no small feat—and it’s possible only because of our powerful community of supporters.

Thank You to Our Partners

Your partnership makes this all possible. We’re incredibly grateful to the sponsors who invest in the mission behind the miles: Foot Levelers, Anthem, Freedom First, Carilion, Altra, Recover, Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, Fleet Feet Roanoke, Gentry Locke, Play Roanoke, Parkway Brewing, Light Strike, Big Lick Brewing, Athletic Brewing, Blue Ridge Beverage, Martin’s Downtown, Tidy, Blue Ridge Outdoors, and Virginia is For Lovers.