Thousands Participate in Philly Love Run Half Marathon

Annual race draws large crowds to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Mar. 29, 2026 at 6:22pm

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The Saucony Love Half Marathon, held on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia, attracted over 15,000 runners on Sunday. Among the participants was Marina Delfiso, who ran in place of a friend with amyloidosis. The event also featured a 7K race, and spectators cheered on the runners, including Meredith Opigard, who attempted to set a Guinness World Record as the fastest female Star Wars character to complete a half marathon while in costume.

Why it matters

The Philly Love Run is a popular annual event that brings the community together to celebrate fitness and raise awareness for various causes. The large turnout and participation from runners and spectators alike showcases Philadelphia's vibrant running culture and the city's ability to host successful large-scale sporting events.

The details

The Saucony Love Half Marathon featured over 15,000 runners who completed the 13.1-mile course along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. One participant, Marina Delfiso, ran in place of a friend with amyloidosis who was unable to participate. The event also included a 7K race, and spectators cheered on the runners, including Meredith Opigard, who attempted to set a Guinness World Record as the fastest female Star Wars character to complete a half marathon while in costume.

  • The Saucony Love Half Marathon took place on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
  • Meredith Opigard expects to hear back on her Guinness World Record attempt later this spring.

The players

Marina Delfiso

A runner who participated in the Saucony Love Half Marathon in place of a friend with amyloidosis.

Meredith Opigard

A public school teacher who attempted to set a Guinness World Record as the fastest female Star Wars character to complete a half marathon while in costume.

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What they’re saying

“It was really good. I was running for a friend. She couldn't run, unfortunately. She has amyloidosis, so she was not feeling good, so I ran for her.”

— Marina Delfiso, Runner

“Guinness Book Records had an entry for the male half marathon fasted starwars character, but not a female. So I thought this is the time to do it. It's International Women's Month.”

— Meredith Opigard, Public school teacher

What’s next

Meredith Opigard expects to hear back on her Guinness World Record attempt later this spring.

The takeaway

The Philly Love Run showcases Philadelphia's vibrant running community and the city's ability to host successful large-scale sporting events that bring people together to celebrate fitness and raise awareness for various causes.