Run for Parkinson's
![Parkinson's Champions runners with program logo](/sites/default/files/styles/no_sizing/public/images/Run4PD-Champions-Runners-logo.png?itok=8_N3-ab5)
The Parkinson's Champions are racing toward a cure! Our Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular endurance events. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon. Are you ready to #Run4PD? If so, we have options!
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Official Race Teams
The Parkinson’s Foundation is registered as an official charity partner with some of the world’s most popular race events. This allows us to purchase a limited number of bibs/entries that we offer at little or no cost to our athletes in exchange for a commitment to fundraise for the Parkinson’s Foundation. We also provide athletes with fun perks and benefits along the way such as swag, training support, celebration get-togethers and more. The Parkinson’s Foundation is not involved in organizing the race events themselves. To join our no-commitment interest list for any race, just fill out our 2024 Race Team Application or our 2025 Race Team Application.
Honorary Athletes
Have you already purchased your own bib/entry to any of the races we have a team for? Since they don’t need to use one of our limited team bibs/entries, Honorary Athletes get all the same benefits as official team members, but only need to hit a fundraising minimum of $500. To join us as an Honorary Athlete, just email us at Run4PD@Parkinson.org and let us know which race you are signed up for.
Run Your Own Race
Through our Run Your Own Race program, athletes can take part in ANY fitness event anywhere in the world. These athletes purchase their own bib/entry to the race event they have chosen, and have a more flexible fundraising minimum of only $500. Run Your Own Race participants enjoy many of the same benefits and perks that our official team members get. To participate just fill out our Run Your Own Race Application.
Champions @ Home
If you are looking to set your own personal fitness challenge (such as run 30 miles this month, plank every day for a week, swim across a local lake, etc.) our Champions @ Home program might be the perfect fit for you! This flexible, self-directed program has no fundraising minimum. Learn more at ChampionsAtHome.org.
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- Need help? Check out our new Application Video Guide to see how the whole process works.
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Click on the tabs below to see details about each of our race teams. If you have other questions, email us at Run4PD@Parkinson.org or call/text us at 763-317-1308.
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Interested in how our teams are doing so far? Check us out at ParkinsonsChampions.org.
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For more information on how our program works, check out our Endurance Handbook and Runner Road Map.
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Soonest race dates are listed below, however we expect to be involved in all races shown here for all upcoming years.
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Please be aware that our official race team program includes required fundraising minimums. While some races allow for deferral or cancellation, we cannot guarantee this, and you may be required to cover any remaining funds yourself whether or not you are able to run. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you and provide tons of resources and support along the way! For more information please review our official Parkinson's Champions Endurance - Deferral & Cancellation Policies.
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Parkinson's Champions Runners Receive:
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Complimentary Race Bib/Entry
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Exclusive Parkinson's Champions Singlet (jersey) for Race Day
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Special-Edition RunnerBox Training Kit
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Virtual Team Meetups
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Pre-Race Celebration Parties (see additional notes below)
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One-on-One Fundraising Support
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Facebook Fundraising Integration
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Parkinson's Champions Mobile App
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Customizable T-Shirt Fundraiser Integration
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Access to an Online Community of Fellow Athletes
Parkinson’s Champions runners receive personalized race training provided by Enhance Sports which includes:
- Direct Access to Official Race Coach
- Complimentary Training Peaks Account
- Training Newsletter
- High-Quality Training Plans and Materials
- Special Offers and Discounts from Top National Brands
- Virtual & In-Person Training Meetups (where available)
*Training program elements may vary by event and race length
runDisney Race Specific Benefits:
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Instead of a Pre-Race Celebration Party, runDisney race participants receive a Disney gift certificate or an invitation to a special Disney park activity such as a Sunset Boat Ride, Fireworks Dessert Experience, Tomorrowland Dinner, or other (park entry is not included with race entries and may be required to take advantage of special activities).
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Complimentary travel support from our friends at Magical Park Vacations
Other Notes:
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Some team benefits may not be available for particular race events
- The Falmouth Road Race (and LA Marathon beginning in 2025) requires that we utilize Race Roster for fundraising pages, which provides slightly different functionality than other events
- New York City Road Runners (NYRR) managed races require athletes to pay a portion of their race entry fee themselves
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VIEW CURRENT RACE AVAILABILITY
Apply for our 2024 race teams here
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Falmouth, MA
Fundraising Commitment: $1,500 (In-Person Race), $500 (At-Home Edition)
The Falmouth Road Race was established in 1973 and has become one of the premier running events of the summer season. Each year the race draws an international field of Olympians, elite, and recreational runners out to enjoy the iconic 7-mile seaside course. When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running one of the most popular races in the country to achieve a personal goal, but for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
This year there is an At-Home Edition for the Falmouth Road Race!
The registration fee is $55 fee which must be paid by the runner, but DOES count toward the $500 fundraising minimum. Please reach out if you have additional questions.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the Falmouth Road Race Homepage.
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Anaheim, CA
Fundraising Commitment: $750 (5k or 10k), $1,250 (Half Marathon), $2,000 (Two Course Challenge)
Whether you’re a Disney fan, an athlete or both, we’ve got a ghoulishly good time for you — the all-new Disneyland® Halloween Half Marathon Weekend! Disneyland Resort will host four days of events, all themed to the Halloween season. And whether you treat yourself to a 3.1-mile jaunt, pick up a few ghostly hitchhikers for 6.2 miles or try to avoid any “hocus-pocus” during a 13.1-mile adventure, some Disney Characters will be there to wish you the happiest of Halloweens! When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running one of the most popular races in the country to achieve a personal goal, but for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
Looking for travel support? Sign up for a free consultation with our wonderful friends at Magical Park Vacations at THIS LINK (whether you end up running with us or not). They have deep knowledge of the parks and traveling with a family member who has Parkinson’s disease.
NOTE: Registration for this race includes access to the Disneyland® amusement park for the race event only. To “ride-the-rides” you would need to purchase a separate ticket to the park. There may be the opportunity for friends and family to come cheer you on without needing to purchase entry to the park, but this will be announced later by the runDisney organization at their discretion.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the runDisney Homepage.
*All Disney names and logos are used with permission, which in no way constitutes an endorsement by Disney, express or implied, of any organization, company, or fundraising campaign. Disney does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness or completeness of information contained on this website. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Disney, and agreement with those views may not be implied by use of the Disney names and logos. ©Disney
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Chicago, IL
Fundraising Commitment: $500 (5k) or $1,000 (Half Marathon)
Celebrate the return of one of Chicago’s premier races. Join us as we take in breathtaking cityscape views, lakefront breezes, and vibrant neighborhoods all while making a positive impact on other people’s lives. When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running one of the most popular races in the country to achieve a personal goal, but for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the races themselves, visit the HOKA Chicago Homepage.
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St. Paul, Minnesota
Fundraising Commitment: $500
Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Weekend, the community’s signature running and fitness gathering, is four decades strong. Let the renowned spectators and enhanced course entertainment inspire you through the Most Beautiful Urban Marathon in America® at an historic edition of the race. Run either the Full Marathon or 10-miler options. When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running one of the largest marathons in the country to achieve a personal goal. But for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the Twin Cities Marathon Weekend Homepage.
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Chicago, Illinois
Fundraising Commitment: $2,000
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is known for its flat and fast course that travels through one of the world’s most magnificent cities. You will enjoy the support of 1.7 million spectators while running through 29 neighborhoods. When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running one of the largest marathons in the country to achieve a personal goal. But for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
We have given out all of our current bibs/entries to the 2024 Chicago Marathon. We do expect some additional spots to open up, but it will not be for a few weeks at the earliest. We will send out occasional update emails to those on our waitlist, but are not able to respond to direct requests for status updates.
To join our waitlist please fill out our 2024 Race Application. To get a top spot on our 2025 interest list, fill out our 2025 Race Application.
Did you manage to get your own bib/entry to the 2024 Chicago Marathon and want to join us as an Honorary Champion? Just email us at Run4PD@Parkinson.org.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the Chicago Marathon Homepage.
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Washington, DC
Fundraising Commitment: $1,000 (Full Marathon), $500 (10k)
Recognized for impeccable organization on an iconic course managed by the US Marines in Arlington, VA and the nation’s capital, the Marine Corps Marathon is one of the largest Marathons in the US and the world. Known as ‘The Best Marathon for Beginners,’ the MCM is the largest marathon in the world that doesn’t offer prize money, earning its nickname, “The People’s Marathon.” When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running one of the most popular races in the country to achieve a personal goal, but for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
*No federal or Marine Corps endorsement of the Parkinson's Foundation is implied by our participation in this event.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the Marine Corps Marathon Homepage.
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New York City, New York
Fundraising Commitment: $3,750
The TCS New York City Marathon course is a 26.2-mile block party through the world’s most diverse city. When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running through NYC’s five boroughs to achieve a personal goal. But for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
NOTE: As of 2022 The New York City Road Runners are requiring that all runners pay part of their own entry fee (around $250). You will still receive a guaranteed spot and the Parkinson’s Foundation will still cover the bib fee (around $500).
We have given out all of our current bibs/entries to the 2024 NYC Marathon. We do expect some additional spots to open up, but it will not be for a few weeks at the earliest. We will send out occasional update emails to those on our waitlist, but are not able to respond to direct requests for status updates.
To join our waitlist please fill out our 2024 Race Application. To get a top spot on our 2025 interest list, fill out our 2025 Race Application.
Did you manage to get your own bib/entry to the 2024 NYC Marathon and want to join us as an Honorary Champion? Just email us at Run4PD@Parkinson.org.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the TCS New York City Marathon Homepage.
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Philadelphia, PA
Fundraising Commitment: $1,500 (Full Marathon), $1,000 (Half Marathon),
$500 (8k)Expect beautiful views through Fairmount Park and along the Schuylkill River and neighborhood crowds gathering on sidewalks in University City and Manayunk. Weave through the well-traveled streets of the historic district, passing sights familiar to Franklin, Washington and the rest of the gang, and end your race speeding towards the steps of the majestic Art Museum. The Philadelphia marathon is a beautiful, fast, flat and scenic course and you’ll set a PR while support people living with Parkinson’s and research toward a cure.
PLEASE NOTE: The Philadelphia Half Marathon & 8k will occur on November 18th. The Full Marathon will occur on the 19th.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend Homepage.
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Orlando, FL
Fundraising Commitment: $750 (5k or 10k), $1,250 (Half Marathon), $2,000 (Marathon), $3,000 (Goofy’s Race and a Half), $4,500 (Dopey Challenge)
Close your eyes and dream it – then make those dreams come true with runDisney® and the Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend. Join Mickey Mouse and friends as you go the distance on your journey across every magical mile. Every course is full of “character” and encouragement as you earn every mile in a weekend filled with four different races, two challenges, and inspiration at every turn (of the course, that is). Dreams do come true with runDisney. When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running one of the most popular races in the country to achieve a personal goal, but for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
Looking for travel support? Sign up for a free consultation with our wonderful friends at Magical Park Vacations at THIS LINK (whether you end up running with us or not). They have deep knowledge of the parks and traveling with a family member who has Parkinson’s disease.
NOTE: Registration for this race includes access to the Walt Disney World Resort® amusement parks for the race event only. To “ride-the-rides” you would need to purchase a separate ticket to the parks. There may be the opportunity for friends and family to come cheer you on without needing to purchase entry to the park, but this will be announced later by the runDisney organization at their discretion.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the runDisney Homepage.
*All Disney names and logos are used with permission, which in no way constitutes an endorsement by Disney, express or implied, of any organization, company, or fundraising campaign. Disney does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness or completeness of information contained on this website. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Disney, and agreement with those views may not be implied by use of the Disney names and logos. ©Disney
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Anaheim, CA
Fundraising Commitment: $2,750 (Dumbo Double Dare), $1,500 (Half Marathon), $1,000 (10k & 5k)
The Disneyland Resort will host four fun-filled days of events, featuring some of your favorite Disney Friends. Whether Guests start their day “barking along” a 3.1- mile adventure or “get their ducks in a row” for 6.2 miles ... or even say “see ya real soon” as they embark for an epic 13.1 miles, our Disney friends will be there to cheer them on!! Even more exciting news for the 2024 event weekend includes a brand-new offering to runDisney events at Disneyland Resort, early morning yoga from inside Disneyland park! From the start line to the finish line, the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend will ensure that Every Mile is Magic! When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running one of the most popular races in the country to achieve a personal goal, but for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
Looking for travel support? Sign up for a free consultation with our wonderful friends at Magical Park Vacations at THIS LINK (whether you end up running with us or not). They have deep knowledge of the parks and traveling with a family member who has Parkinson’s disease.
NOTE: Registration for this race includes access to the Disneyland® amusement park for the race event only. To “ride-the-rides” you would need to purchase a separate ticket to the park. There may be the opportunity for friends and family to come cheer you on without needing to purchase entry to the park, but this will be announced later by the runDisney organization at their discretion.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the runDisney Homepage.
*All Disney names and logos are used with permission, which in no way constitutes an endorsement by Disney, express or implied, of any organization, company, or fundraising campaign. Disney does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness or completeness of information contained on this website. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Disney, and agreement with those views may not be implied by use of the Disney names and logos. ©Disney
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Miami, FL
Fundraising Commitment: $1,000 (Full Marathon), $750 (Half Marathon), $500 (5k)
The Life Time Miami Marathon has evolved to become one of the fastest-growing annual marathons that hosts tens of thousands from around the world. Known for its scenic, USTAF-certified, flat, single-loop and Boston-qualifying course, the event attracts first timers and elite distance runners alike. With tropical views and sounds of the city it has a finish line alongside the water at Bayfront Park in the beautiful South Beach. When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running one of the most popular races in the country to achieve a personal goal, but for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the Miami Marathon Homepage.
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Los Angeles, CA
Fundraising Commitment: $1,000 (Full Marathon), $750 (Half Marathon), $500 (5k)
Join us for the 39th running of the Los Angeles Marathon presented by ASICS on March 17, 2024. Athletes will enjoy world-class entertainment and celebrate one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world as the course winds through Downtown Los Angeles, Little Tokyo, Hollywood, and more.
The Charity Half Marathon is a half marathon within the Los Angeles Marathon where everyone participating is giving back! It is a unique event that has the intimate feel of a close-knit nonprofit community while enjoying the high energy and support of one of the largest marathons in the country.
The LA Big 5K is a family-friendly race open to participants of all ages and abilities, including runners, walkers and strollers. Experience an iconic run through Los Angeles as you run through beautiful Elysian Park before a rewarding finish set against the backdrop of world-famous Dodger Stadium.
When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running one of the most popular races in the country to achieve a personal goal, but for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the LA Marathon Homepage.
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New York City, New York
Fundraising Commitment: $2,000
The NYC Half Marathon is a one-of-a-kind experience and showcases New York City’s historic landmarks, popular parks, sweeping views from the Manhattan Bridge, and diverse neighborhoods starting at Prospect Park in Brooklyn then passing Grand Army Plaza, the United Nations, Grand Central Terminal, and Times Square, before ending near the iconic TCS New York City Marathon finish line in Central Park. When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running one of the largest marathons in the country to achieve a personal goal. But for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
NOTE: As of 2022 The New York City Road Runners are requiring that all runners pay part of their own entry fee (around $130). You will still receive a guaranteed spot and the Parkinson’s Foundation will still cover the bib fee (around $250).
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the New York Road Runners Homepage.
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Monterey, California
Fundraising Commitment: $1,000 (Marathon, 21-Miler, 11-Miler) or $750 (12k, 5k)
The Big Sur International Marathon is a destination race like no other. Whether you are running 26.2, 11m, 12k, or 5k up the California coast you will see what makes this tiny community so unique. When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running a beautiful course to achieve a personal goal. But for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the Big Sur International Marathon Homepage.
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Eugene, Oregon
Fundraising Commitment: $1,000 (Marathon), $750 (Half), $500 (5k)
Run in the footsteps of legends like Steve Prefontaine, Raevyn Rogers, and Ashton Eaton as you experience 26.2 magical miles of Track Town USA, or challenge yourself with one of the other Eugene Marathon events such as the Half-Marathon, 5k, or Doublestack Challenge. Whatever length you choose to run, you will enjoy the beautiful scenery of South Eugene and the University of Oregon campus. When you run with Parkinson's Champions you will be running one of the most popular marathons in the country to achieve a personal goal. But for the 1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease, it means so much more.
If you have questions, send an email to Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the Eugene Marathon Homepage.
![Jamie and Wendy Harrison after running a marathon](/sites/default/files/styles/535x680/public/images/jamie-wendy_harrison.png?h=c9aea1bc&itok=ECTIJVg1)
Some of the brightest minds on earth are working around the clock to find a cure, which is why running as a Parkinson's Champion and continuing to raise awareness is important.