11 Celebrities Who Love Running Marathons

Running a marathon is no easy feat, even for seasoned athletes. Yet, several celebrities have taken up the challenge, embracing the rigorous training and pushing past their limits to cross the finish line for both personal fulfillment and charitable causes. Let’s dive into the lives of some stars who’ve caught the marathon bug, putting their best foot forward in races around the globe.

1. Claire Holt

Television star Claire Holt is passionate about marathon running, a love that began in 2022. Her training for the New York City Marathon involved 20 intense weeks, ultimately resulting in raising $162,000 for Boston Children’s Hospital. Although she’s currently retired from racing, Claire reminisces about her marathon journey on her website, appreciating both the grueling preparation and the generosity of supporters.

2. Nev Schulman

Nev Schulman, the host of MTV’s Catfish, finds running to be the “best medicine” for his wellbeing. Despite a near-fatal bike accident in 2024, he made an inspiring recovery to participate in the New York City Marathon as a guide for a blind runner. His resilience and dedication to running have served as strong motivators throughout his life.

3. Kevin Hart

Comedian and actor Kevin Hart took his first big leap into marathon running in 2017 with the New York City Marathon. Known for his spontaneous 5K runs during comedy tours, Kevin finds peace and creativity while running, often plunging into training as early as 4 am. He’s completed multiple marathons, motivated by both personal goals and setting examples for others.

4. Casey Neistat

A popular YouTuber, Casey Neistat began marathon racing in 2007 as part of a personal recovery plan following a severe scooter accident. He’s completed over 25 marathons, achieving a personal best of a sub-3-hour marathon in 2023, proving perseverance pays off in garish fashion.

5. Karlie Kloss

Supermodel Karlie Kloss ventured into the marathon world starting with short-distance races and moving onto a successful half marathon in Paris. Her newfound love for running led her to complete the New York City Marathon in 2017, constantly seeking ways to challenge herself and step outside her comfort zone.

6. Mario Lopez

Fitness enthusiast Mario Lopez explores the streets, combining his love for track workouts with marathon racing. His marathon journey began with the Boston Marathon in 2002, supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Since then, he’s added several marathons including the iconic New York City Marathon to his athletic repertoire.

7. Christy Turlington

Supermodel Christy Turlington ran her first marathon in 2012 not for the love of running but to support Every Mother Counts, her nonprofit. Through every race, including running the New York City Marathon 10 times, she’s advocated for maternal health and embraced the joyful, shared human experience of marathon running.

8. Matt James

Former Bachelor and dedicated runner, Matt James, has embraced marathon running with enthusiasm. Completing the Chicago Marathon in 2019 marked the start of his long-distance journey, now sharing the joy of the race day as a beloved tradition, including multiple finishes in both the New York and London Marathons.

9. Alicia Keys

Singer Alicia Keys made her marathon debut in Greece, drawn to the historic roots of the race itself. Despite initial thoughts of it being a one-time event, she completed the New York City Marathon in 2015 for Keep a Child Alive, emphasizing mental strength and smashing personal boundaries along the way.

10. Zac Clark

Best known from The Bachelorette, Zac Clark passionately participates in marathons, leveraging each race to support his non-profit Release Recovery. Since moving to New York and witnessing the excitement of marathons, he’s kept a promise to participate annually, raising awareness for addiction and mental health.

11. Peter Weber

Another face from The Bachelor franchise, Peter Weber has taken the running world by storm, frequently participating in the New York City Marathon. He’s joined other reality show alumni, pushing through the challenges and claiming vast satisfaction from each accomplishment.

Whether for personal achievement or charitable purposes, these celebrities demonstrate the crossroad of passion and persistence when it comes to marathon running. Crossing the finish line is not just about the race day but the journey of determination, making it an inspiration to fans and fellow runners alike.

Source: https://toofab.com/2024/12/01/11-celebrities-who-love-running-marathons/