News

PITTSBURGH, PA – This year P3R is unrolling the red carpet and celebrating outstanding charity runners with the new UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh BACK Half Marathon. Limited to the first 500 runners who fundraise $1,500 or more for charity, the new race will start in Shadyside and include a VIP experience from start to finish with a VIP gear check, private start line experience, special gold medal and unique race bib. These runners, along with other participants in the Run for a Reason Charity Program, presented by Microsoft, are expected to raise more than $1 million for local and national causes this year.  

Runners who qualify for the new course will have the opportunity for the first time to run through the neighborhoods on the second part of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon course including Shadyside, Point Breeze, Homewood, East Liberty, Highland Park, Friendship, Bloomfield and Strip District.  

“I've run the half marathon several times and love seeing each neighborhood come out to celebrate,” said Evie Fowler, who is a charity runner for the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. “In 2020 I was already training for the full marathon for the first time when it became clear it wouldn't be safe to have an in-person event. I completed the race virtually, but I missed seeing the second half of the course on race day. When I saw the back half opportunity, I knew I had to go for it.”  

More than 2,500 charity runners are expected to participate in the Run for a Reason Charity Program, presented by Microsoft, this year. Individuals who participate in the program can choose from more than 30 official Run for Reason charity partners and participate in any of the seven events during race weekend.  

“After my friend's passing due to cancer, this seemed like the perfect avenue to honor her,” said Brian Thomas, who has raised more than $2,000 for the American Cancer Society. “As a grieving person, it also gave me a positive outlet and way to clear my mind. Then I found out about the Back Half Marathon running through Bloomfield (my neighborhood) for the first time ever and it seemed like more than coincidence. I believe it was the universe's way of telling me I'm on the right path!”  

Runners still have the opportunity to commit to this year’s Run For A Reason Charity Program and earn their spot in the first-ever 2022 UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Back Half Marathon. Learn more here.