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From First Run to Finish Line: New Program for Novice Runners Debuts at 2025 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon

01.22.25

PITTSBURGH — P3R is launching the First Year Movers Program, presented by Chicken of the Sea, to help new runners conquer their first big race at the 2025 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend of Events. This initiative is designed to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for first-time marathon and half-marathon participants—from their first training run to crossing the finish line.

“We believe everyone, no matter their experience level, has the potential to accomplish amazing goals at the 2025 marathon weekend, and we’re dedicated to supporting them every step of the way,” said Troy Schooley, P3R CEO. “Through our partnership with Chicken of the Sea, this new program provides runners with essential resources, from expert training guidance to versatile, high-protein seafood options that can fuel your training journey”

Participants in the First Year Movers Program will receive support and resources to help them succeed, including:

  • Customized Training Plans developed by expert coaches.
  • Nutritious Recipes featuring protein-packed, delicious options from Chicken of the Sea.
  • Exclusive Special Offers to enhance their running experience.
  • Invitations to Pop-Up Runs in the Pittsburgh area.

With events for all ages and abilities, the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend of Events continues to grow, drawing over 40,000 participants annually, including a significant number of first-time runners. In 2024, an impressive 44% of marathon participants and 34% of half-marathon participants tackled these distances for the first time. The First Year Movers Program builds on this enthusiasm by equipping new runners with the resources they need to train effectively, stay motivated, and cross the finish line with confidence.

“Chicken of the Sea is excited to partner with P3R to support first-time marathon and half-marathon runners through the First Year Movers Program,” said Griffin Raasch, Director of Marketing at Chicken of the Sea. “At Chicken of the Sea, we are dedicated to bringing convenient and affordable lean protein options to your kitchen or on-the-go lifestyle. We look forward to being a part of your first big race journey.”

P3R has long been a champion of inclusivity and building community through running, offering support to participants of all abilities and ages through various programs, including youth initiatives, walking divisions, and more. The First Year Movers Program is another example of P3R’s dedication to fostering a love for movement and making the sport of running accessible to everyone.

To register for the First Year Movers Program and start your training journey, visit thePittsburghMarathon.com.

About the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend of Events

The Pittsburgh Marathon was held annually from 1985-2003. After a five-year hiatus, the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon was relaunched in 2009 and debuted with a sold-out field of 10,000 participants. It has grown each year since, evolving from a single race day into a weekend of events for the whole family that annually attracts nearly 40,000 runners. Read more at: ThePittsburghMarathon.com

About P3R

P3R is the region’s go-to premier sporting event and experience expert. While best known for the annual DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, P3R organizes up to 20 major events every year. With a rich history of working with top-tier clients such as the Pittsburgh Steelers, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, the Pittsburgh Penguins, the National Senior Games, and more, P3R brings operational excellence to every aspect of event planning and execution. As part of P3R’s non-profit mission to inspire any and all to MOVE with us, we provide premium event experiences and robust programming—including the Run for a Reason Charity Program, award-winning Kids of STEEL program, Pittsburgh Corporate Challenge, RUN Varsity, and more—that engage everyone in the Western Pennsylvania community and beyond.

About Chicken of the Sea

 Chicken of the Sea understands one universal truth – good food makes you feel good! That's why we are dedicated to bringing wild caught happiness to every household by delivering convenient and affordable protein options made with the best sourced seafood for more than 100 years. Whether you're getting creative in the kitchen or just looking for an on-the-go snack, Chicken of the Sea has something for you, including an expansive portfolio of tuna, salmon, clams, crab, oysters, mackerel and sardines in cans, packets, kits and cups. And because we believe we can't be truly healthy and happy if our world isn't too, we're supporting SeaChange 2030, Thai Union's sustainability pledge, committed to being stewards of the sea and our society, always looking for ways to do more and do better. To learn more about which Chicken of the Sea product is the one for you, visit www.chickenofthesea.com or follow Chicken of the Sea on InstagramFacebookTikTok and Pinterest