Annual race at Union Terminal brings back running icon
CINCINNATI, OH (April 20, 2026) — The Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center announces that legendary athlete and social advocate Kathrine Switzer will return as Race Marshal for the Upstander 5K on June 28, 2026, at historic Union Terminal. Switzer, the first woman to officially register and run the Boston Marathon, is back for her second year leading the race and continuing her role in presenting the Dr. Al Miller Resilience Award.
Switzer’s groundbreaking 1967 Boston Marathon run helped spark a global movement for women in sports, and her leadership at the Upstander 5K continues to inspire participants to take action and build community.
The Upstander 5K kicks off a full day dedicated to standing up for others and honoring individuals who persevere in the face of adversity. The race begins at 8:30 a.m., taking runners and walkers on a scenic route through Cincinnati’s West End, with Kathrine Switzer at the helm.
Now in its second year, the Upstander 5K Dr. Al Miller Resilience Award honors a runner or walker who exemplifies determination, perseverance, and a passion for physical fitness. Named in memory of Dr. Al Miller z’l, a Holocaust survivor, U.S. Army veteran, and lifelong advocate for movement, the award recognizes individuals who, like Miller, have overcome significant challenges yet continue to move forward. Dr. Miller believed deeply in the power of physical activity to build resilience, walking several miles a day until the age of 100. The recipient of the Dr. Al Miller Resilience Award will be announced on May 15 and honored before the start of the race.
Nominate someone for the Upstander 5K Dr. Al Miller Resilience Award. Following the 5K, participants are invited to join a community celebration outside Union Terminal, including live music, family activities, breakfast, and a pickleball tournament.
The Upstander 5K and Family Day, as part of the Cohen Family Upstander Month, is sponsored by the Mayerson Family Foundation, Duke Energy, Fleet Feet, FC Cincinnati, Cincinnati Music Accelerator.
Registration is now open.
About the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center
The Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center exists to ensure the lessons of the Holocaust inspire action today. Located at Cincinnati’s historic Union Terminal, HHC impacts more than 2.5 million people every year through digital and in-person events, museum tours, educational experiences, social media and virtual content. From Australia to India, individuals from more than 25 countries and 30 states engage with our mission. For more information, visit. www.holocaustandhumanity.org.
