We’re excited to announce that Hope Story has been selected as an official charity partner for the 2026 Big Sur International Marathon Weekend (11-mile and full marathon entires) which will be held on April 26, 2026. The marathon course is from Big Sur to Carmel on scenic Highway 1.
As an official charity partner, we will be able to offer runners guaranteed spots in the 11-mile and marathon races while also allowing them to raise funds that will enable Hope Story to bring hope to families whose child has received a Down syndrome diagnosis. Check out the video below to for inside look at what to expect running with Team Hope Story.
Space is extremely limited for Big Sur International Weekend and we invite you to apply by clicking the button below. (Please be sure to read the runner requirements and fundraising commitments below before applying.)
Benefits of Running with Team Hope Story
- Guaranteed Race Entry to the 2026 Big Sur International Marathon Weekend
- Runners do not pay for race registration
- A personal fundraising page to help you achieve your fundraising goal.
- Team event during race weekend for you and your immediate family.
- Hope Story running swag.
- An opportunity to raise funds that help Hope Story bring hope to families whose child has been diagnosed with Down syndrome.
- Regular Team meetings (via Zoom) to encourage and motivate you as you train for the marathon!
Runner Requirements
- All runners must commit to meet or exceed the minimum fundraising requirement of $1,500 for the 11-mile race and $3,000 for the full marathon. Runners must raise 50% of their minimum fundraising commitment by Dec 15, 2025 and 100% of their minimum fundraising commitment by April 1, 2026.
- Attend our team Zoom calls. (We understand life happens, but in general we ask that you make every effort to attend the team calls. We expect to have 3 team calls before the event.
Ready to apply? Simply click here. Have questions? Send us an email.