10/19/2026
If you’ve ever run a race, you know there’s an energy that’s hard to put into words. Sometimes it’s the intensity of competition. Sometimes it’s the nervousness of the unknown or the confidence of those chasing a goal.
But yesterday felt different.
At the Youngstown Peace Race, we’ve always believed that community is at the heart of everything we do. And as strange as it might sound, if community were a feeling, it was the energy that surrounded yesterday’s races.
You could feel it everywhere. In the pre-race gatherings, at the starting lines, along the course, and during the celebrations afterward.
We had the opportunity to talk with so many of you. From the fastest runners to those in the middle of the pack, all the way to our final finishers. And through every conversation, one thing stood out: the incredible support, kindness, and encouragement you showed one another.
Not just from the organizers or volunteers, but from YOU, the athletes.
We can talk all day about community and peace. We can put those words on banners, shirts, and social media posts. But words only mean something when we put them into action.
Yesterday, YOU brought those words to life.
Two simple words were printed on this year’s race shirts: RUN. LOVE.
And in a world that could use a little more of both, we don’t think those words have ever meant more than they did yesterday.
You reminded us that this race is about so much more than miles, finishing times, or personal records. It’s about people. It’s about showing up for one another, encouraging someone you’ve never met, and being part of something bigger than yourself.
Thank you for being part of this community. Thank you for coming back year after year. And most importantly, thank you for showing us what the true spirit of the Youngstown Peace Race looks like.
Without YOU, we wouldn’t get to do what we love. And because of YOU, it means so much more.
RUN. LOVE. REPEAT. ❤️☮️❤️
