Des Linden Will Race Orlando Half Marathon for Charity
The marathon champion will start in last place to raise funds for the Track Shack Youth Foundation.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Running
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Olympic athlete Des Linden will participate in the 50th annual OUC Orlando Half Marathon this December 2026. She intends to start at the back of the pack to raise $5 for the Track Shack Youth Foundation for every runner she overtakes.
Why it matters
Linden is using her platform as a two-time Olympian and Boston Marathon winner to boost local youth athletics. This unique participation method turns the competitive spirit of a race into a direct fundraising mechanism for the community.
The OUC Orlando Half Marathon spans 13.1 miles. This event follows Linden's completion of a 100-mile ultramarathon scheduled one month prior.
The players
Des Linden
She is a two-time Olympian and the 2018 Boston Marathon winner.
Track Shack Youth Foundation
This is a community-focused organization that supports youth health and athletic programs.
The details
Linden, who competed in the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games, will utilize her endurance experience as she attempts to pass as many runners as possible. The initiative specifically benefits the Track Shack Youth Foundation, which supports youth programming in Orlando.
Timeline
2018: Linden won the Boston Marathon female division.
2024: Linden competed in the Olympic time trials held in Orlando.
December 2026: Linden participates in the OUC Orlando Half Marathon.
Season Trajectory
Linden's move toward unique, endurance-heavy charity challenges signals a shift from competitive professional racing to mission-driven personal endurance feats. This evolution positions her as an icon who bridges the gap between elite marathon performance and accessible community engagement.
Participants in the OUC Orlando Half Marathon should anticipate being passed by Linden during the course of the 13.1-mile race. Every overtaking maneuver she completes directly increases the total donation amount collected for local youth athletics.
The takeaway
Linden's approach highlights how professional athletes can leverage their endurance to create significant community impact. Runners participating in local events can similarly adopt this model to turn their personal physical achievements into meaningful contributions for local charities.
Further reading
For more on competitive and charity distance events, visit Running.
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