North Tidewater News

The City of Newport News has announced plans for its 11th Annual One City Marathon (OCM) Weekend, scheduled to take place from February 28 to March 2, 2025. The event will be held in collaboration with the National Black Marathoners’ Association (NBMA) Annual Summit.

“The 11th Annual One City Marathon Weekend is a great celebration of our community’s commitment to health and wellness,” said Mayor Phillip Jones. “This year’s event is especially exciting with our collaboration with the National Black Marathoners’ Association, which adds a dynamic and inclusive element to the festivities. From the 5K to the full marathon, each race reflects our city’s spirit of achievement and unity. This event perfectly captures the energy and togetherness of Newport News, showcasing our dedication to both personal and community success.”

Registration is now open for all races. Newport News Shipbuilding continues as the Presenting Sponsor for One City Marathon weekend since its inception in 2015. The races commence on Saturday, March 1, with the Sentara Health Plans Maritime 5K at City Center at Oyster Point at 8 a.m., followed by the Nautical Mile presented by Ferguson Cares at 9:30 a.m. Family-friendly activities will be available at Tradition Brewing Company in City Center from 8 a.m. to noon.

The main marathon event takes place on Sunday, March 2. Starting at Newport News Park at 7 a.m., runners will traverse the entire length of the city, concluding at Victory Arch in The Yard District downtown. The certified course spans 26.2 miles and qualifies participants for the Boston Marathon. Sunday's events also include the BayPort Credit Union Half Marathon starting at Menchville High School at 7 a.m.

Participants have options to engage in multiple races or register for one of two multi-race challenges that offer additional medals and special finisher items.

The weekend concludes with the One City Celebration at Coastal Fermentory in The Yard District on Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring food, live music, activities, vendors, and drinks.

The NBMA's involvement was influenced by member Sika Henry, who made history as the first female overall winner in OCM's ten-year history and is also recognized as the first African American female professional triathlete.

“We’re looking forward to bringing our members to this wonderful city,” said Anthony “Tony” Reed, executive director of NBMA. “We support cities that support our members, such as Sika. We hope to encourage more local people to pursue distance running and walking due to our presence in your area.”