6 Heartwarming Tales from the 2026 Los Angeles Marathon
The 2026 Los Angeles Marathon Set to Inspire Thousands This Sunday
This Sunday, the 2026 ASICS Los Angeles Marathon will witness over 26,000 participants running from Dodger Stadium to Century City. As runners take their marks, each competitor carries their own unique story of resilience and determination.
In the days leading up to the race, NBC Los Angeles has highlighted several inspirational runners participating in this year’s event.
Palisades Fire Survivor Takes to the Pavement
Karen Sternheimer, a survivor of the Palisades Fire that devastated her home in January 2025, will run her first marathon as part of her healing journey. Having lived in the Palisades since the 1980s, Sternheimer frequently ran in her community. "This race signifies a significant step in my recovery," she stated.
Honoring Nipsey Hussle’s Legacy
The Marathon Run Club, comprised of approximately 100 runners, is set to participate in the marathon to honor the late rapper Nipsey Hussle. Their mission focuses on embodying the discipline and purpose Hussle exemplified, as the club raises funds for the Neighborhood Nip Foundation, part of Hussle’s Marathon brand.
Running for Alzheimer’s Awareness
Cole Petrikas, a resident of Menifee, is running the marathon in memory of his grandmother, Lisa, who passed away in April 2025 due to dementia. “I know Grandma Lisa would be incredibly proud of me,” Petrikas said. He is among many participating to support nonprofit initiatives aimed at curing neurological diseases.
Defying Odds After a Tragic Accident
Dominic Leventini is another remarkable participant. Following a severe bike accident that left him with 26 broken bones, he was told he would never run again. Defying the odds, he will compete in his third consecutive LA Marathon, embodying gratitude and hope with every stride.
Community Remembers a Young Star
In memory of Braun Levi, an 18-year-old Loyola High School tennis player who lost his life to a drunk driver, 66 runners will participate in a collective effort called "Run Like Braun." Levi had completed the LA Marathon just months before his tragic death, and his family and friends have united to commemorate his legacy.
Rediscovering Love for Los Angeles
Christopher Lima, a first-time marathon runner, is also participating to honor his late grandfather who faced Alzheimer’s. “Training for this marathon has rekindled my love for Los Angeles,” Lima shared. He attributes his perseverance to the lessons he learned from his grandfather.
Key Details About the 2026 Los Angeles Marathon
The marathon begins at 7 a.m. from Dodger Stadium and finishes at Santa Monica Boulevard and Avenue of the Stars in Century City. Spanning 26.2 miles, the course traverses several iconic Los Angeles neighborhoods, including Elysian Park, Hollywood, and Beverly Hills.
This year marks a new broadcasting partnership for the marathon, with NBC4 and Telemundo 52 covering the event in both English and Spanish. Viewers can tune in from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Sunday for live coverage and access a livestream on NBC4’s website.
For those interested in additional details, including road closures and a course map, more information is available through the marathon’s various resources.
