Akron Will Host First Sensory-Inclusive Marathon So All Can Join in the Fun – runnersworld.com

• The will become the first sensory-inclusive race this weekend.
• The decision was inspired by one of its committee members who has a son with autism.
• Professional sports teams from the MLB, NFL, and NBA have already become sensory-inclusive as well.

The Akron Marathon is taking a big step forward for the running industry this weekend, when it becomes the first sensory-inclusive race in the country.

To do this, the race partnered with the nonprofit , which works with the sensory-needs community, to provide training for the eight-person staff and certain volunteers prior to race day on September 28. Sensory inclusion revolves around providing a safe space for people with autism, posttraumatic stress disorder, Parkinson’s, and early-onset dementia who might get overwhelmed by crowds or loud noises.

Organizers first heard the idea from committee member Jeff Belles and his wife Amy Belles, who have a 14-year-old son with autism, and work closely with KultureCity in northeastern Ohio. Encouraged by sensory-inclusive efforts in professional sports—KultureCity has partnered with 22 MLB teams and even brought its sensory-inclusion vehicle to the MLB All-Star Game in Cleveland in August to provide a safe space away from crowds and loud noises—the couple decided it made sense to get the marathon participating as well.

“My wife and many other runners run for causes, and often the people they are running for can’t come out to the race because someone with sensory needs can get overwhelmed,” Jeff told Runner’s World. “The running community is already so inclusive, so why not add another layer to it?”

The Akron Marathon board of directors welcomed the idea and began preparations in August after the Belles family brought it up.

The preparations were simple, according to race director Anne Bitong. Board members and select volunteers went through a 30-minute certification process to show how to support runners and fans with sensory needs and provide tips on how to handle a sensory-overload situation. They also have certified staff from the minor league baseball’s Akron RubberDucks on hand at the finish line, which is in the team’s stadium.

“It’s all about be proactive rather than reactive,” Bitong told Runner’s World. “We want to be the leader in the running industry for this because if we can enhance our runners’ and spectators’ experience and provide a safer environment during the race and at the finish line, we are more than happy to accommodate that.”

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KultureCity will also be there with various tools like noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, weighted lap pads, and its sensory vehicle for all guests with sensory needs.

Participants and attendees can also download the KultureCity app before and during the race to see what is available and where during the race.

“As an avid runner, working with the Akron Marathon alongside Jeff and Amy Belles to make the first sensory inclusive marathon in the world has been truly amazing,” Michele Kong, cofounder of KultureCity, told Runner’s World. “Running is truly something universal, and to know that this marathon is embracing everyone regardless of their sensory needs, marks a landmark occasion for acceptance and inclusion for all.”

The marathon takes place this Saturday. Around 10,000 runners are expected to run the race.

Bitong hopes their example inspires other races around the country to do the same.

“It was so easy to execute this, and I would encourage any race to embrace this opportunity,” she said. “We want to do what’s right in terms of inclusion, and I hope other races follow suit. Sensory inclusion is big at events like MLB, NFL, and even wrestling, so why not the running industry, too?”

Belles reiterated that point by adding that this weekend, when Amy finishes the race, their son will be able to be at the finish line waiting for her for the first time.

“For the running community, this could be a watershed moment,” Jeff said. “It really is an opportunity to open up the doors for people who have never been able to be part of the running community and I am filled with excitement. My son will see his mom finish a race for the first time this weekend. That’s something everyone should be able to experience.”

For anyone or any race interested in getting trained and certified in sensory inclusion, Jeff recommends going where you can schedule a training session. You’ll be provided on-site training and will receive sensory bags, which include noise-canceling headphones, fidgeters, and other resources for race day.

Gear & News Editor Drew covers a variety of subjects for Runner’s World and Bicycling, and he specializes in writing and editing human interest pieces while also covering health, wellness, gear, and fitness for the brand.