On this National Student Athlete Day, we shine a light on volunteer-led Students Run LA (SRLA) that uses sport to make a difference in thousands of kids’ lives across Los Angeles.

SRLA brings together more than 3,200 middle and high school students from under-resourced communities throughout LA every year to train alongside hundreds of teachers and compete in the Los Angeles Marathon. Along the way, SRLA students learn about dedication, perseverance and inner strength.

This 2020-2021 season, despite immense challenges brought on by the pandemic, SRLA students ran more than 1,865,000 miles. With the official LA Marathon postponed, students trained all year and ran their own marathon with their teammates through SRLA’s Cross the Finish Line Culminating Challenge.

“SRLA shows the far-reaching impact sports can have on young people,” said LA28 Chief Impact Officer Brence Culp. “This organization teaches valuable skills and lessons that stay with kids for life, as they discover their potential and resiliency through running.”

SRLA’s work in the community has a tremendous impact. SRLA challenges students on goal setting, character development and improving their health as they train to conquer 26.2 miles. Students who complete the marathon are more likely to make healthier food choices, exercise regularly, graduate high school and attend college. Since its founding in 1989, 73,000 students have participated in SRLA.

LA28 is proud to support Students Run LA and make sports more accessible for kids across Los Angeles.