Waitlist remains for Air Force Marathon entry-fee donations Published Aug. 9, 2023 By Matthew Fink 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – While you’re signing up for an Air Force Marathon event, why not give an Airman the gift of racing? Each year, the Air Force Marathon hosts the gift-registration program, where a race participant can elect to pay the registration fee of a junior Airman between the ranks of E-1 and E-6. Marathon officials said they have already given away all the registrations sold this year, and there are still Airmen on the list hoping for the opportunity to race. “This is the first year we have a waitlist for this program, which is an exciting issue to face,” Air Force Marathon Director Rachael Ferguson said. “We would love to encourage the general public to purchase the gift registration so that more of the Airmen on our waitlist can have the opportunity to participate in the 2023 Air Force Marathon events.” While donations are available to all military personnel, Airmen at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base will receive priority over those stationed elsewhere, marathon officials said. Those interested in donating a race entry fee can do so at www.usafmarathon.com/gift-registrations. You must register or already be signed up for an event to donate online, but those who are not registered may still purchase a gift entry by calling the Air Force Marathon Office at 937-257-4350. Gift registrations cost $70. “We exist to represent the U.S. Air Force in a very unique way through the running events,” Ferguson said. “We understand that funding can be difficult at times, so the purpose of the gift-registration program is to ensure that all Airmen, no matter their rank, can participate.” The annual Air Force Marathon takes place the third Saturday of September at Wright-Patterson AFB. It was first held in 1997 to commemorate the Air Force’s 50th anniversary. The 2023 Air Force Marathon will feature three aircraft: the MH-139 Grey Wolf, UH-1N Huey and HH-60W Jolly Green II. For more information regarding the Air Force Marathon, email usaf.marathon@us.af.mil or visit www.usafmarathon.com.