2026 Miami Marathon celebrates athletes and community (includes video story)

Thousands of runners from around the world joined the 2026 Lifetime Miami Marathon and Half Marathon, which kicked off at 6 a.m. Sunday at the Kaseya Center — home of the Miami Heat — and concluded at Bayfront Park.

From elite athletes to first-time participants, the 26.2-mile course showcased Miami’s iconic streets and waterfront. 

Cheered on by family, friends and volunteers, the event highlighted endurance, determination, and the strong sense of community that defines the city.

Leigh Sumner returned to the marathon after a major surgery.

“I have been a competitive athlete for my entire life,” said Sumner, “and it’s wonderful that I can get accommodations and still be able to compete.”

Patrick Loeber is from Weston, Florida and a college senior majoring in Digital Tv and Multimedia Production. After graduation, he plans to pursue a career in media production, advertising, or news, combining creativity and technical skills tell compelling visual stories across platforms.

Paola Sirignano is a Senior majoring in Digital Broadcasting and a reporter/anchor for Caplin News. She plans to pursue a career in the entertainment industry as a TV host or multimedia journalist, covering breaking news and the biggest events in music, film, television and fashion while connecting with diverse audiences through her bilingual storytelling.