Michelob ULTRA Is Helping First-Time Marathoners, Inspired by a Pioneer in the Sport 

Have you ever watched a marathon and thought: I wish I could do that? Well, we’re here to let you in on a little secret. You totally can—all you need is some inspiration and a helping hand. That’s where Michelob ULTRA comes in. Your favorite light beer is providing the tools you need to start your marathon journey off on the right foot, inspired by a true female pioneer in the sport.

In 1967, Kathrine Switzer made history by becoming the first woman to run the Boston Marathon with an official race number—despite efforts of the race director to remove her from the course. It wasn’t until 1972 that the New York City Marathon finally began accepting female runners, thanks in part to Kathrine’s heroic effort. (This year marks the New York City Marathon’s 50th anniversary of the women’s division.) However, there’s still a gender representation gap today: Only 46 percent of NYC Marathon finishers are women or non-binary, and that number is even lower for women and non-binary folks of color.

With your help, Michelob ULTRA’s goal is to bring that representation up to 50 percent. The brand’s new Run Fund initiative is actively working to bridge the gender gap by providing training programs and resources for women and non-binary athletes making their marathon debut.

They’re also offering a contest giving first-time runners a chance to win a bib for the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon. The Run Fund will even expand to other races nationwide as the next chapter in the brand’s commitment to equality and visibility in sports. As coach and marathoner Kelly Roberts says, “If that little voice in your head has been whispering, ‘I want to run a marathon’—do it!”

Ready to join the movement? Check out the Michelob ULTRA Run Fund here to apply and start your marathon journey—because every win starts with a first step.