Charity Chaser: A Race Experience Like No Other
One of the most memorable moments of Eau Claire Marathon weekend doesn't happen at the front of the pack—it begins at the very back.
Our Charity Chaser program gives one special runner (or team) the unique opportunity to start last and race with a purpose. Every runner they pass on the course generates a donation for a local charity, turning every stride into something bigger than the finish line.
2024 Charity Chasers
In 2024, Eau Claire Marathon Ambassadors Jonathon and Angela accepted the challenge.
Starting after every other runner had crossed the start line, they set out with one goal: pass as many participants as possible to raise money for Make-A-Wish Wisconsin.
Together, they passed an incredible 2,537 runners.
Jonathon and Angela also matched the Eau Claire Marathon's donation, allowing us to present more than $5,000 to Make-A-Wish Wisconsin and help make Ethan's dream trip to Hawaii become a reality.
It's proof that together, our running community can make a real difference.
Thank you, Jonathon and Angela, for representing everything the Eau Claire Marathon stands for.
"One of My Greatest Running Memories"
After the event, Jonathon shared a reflection that perfectly captures what makes the Charity Chaser experience so special.
"I still wear my Eau Claire Marathon singlet with pride."
As an experienced runner with hundreds of races under his belt, Jonathon is used to lining up near the very front of the start line. Like many runners, race morning is carefully planned—from nutrition and warm-up routines to timing his final trip to the porta-potty.
Everything is intentional.
But the Charity Chaser experience turned all of that upside down.
"For one race I had to disregard most things I normally do and just relax and wait until everyone else left."
Instead of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with anxious runners waiting for the gun, Jonathon found himself alone at the back of the pack, taking in an entirely different perspective.
"I got to experience the energy of the starting line that sometimes I block out because of race anxiety."
With music playing and thousands of runners heading down the course, Jonathon did something completely out of character.
"I was actually dancing in the back of the line while everyone else started. People recorded it and sent me the videos afterward. It was so not like me... but I loved it."
When it was finally his turn to cross the start line, the mission became clear.
Every runner passed meant more money for Make-A-Wish Wisconsin.
"I knew I had a job to do, and I went ahead and did it."
More Than Just a Race
While raising money for charity was incredibly meaningful, Jonathon says the experience became something even bigger.
"I have done hundreds of races and have had many wonderful racing experiences and memories. But having the opportunity to start dead last and work to pass as many fellow runners as possible for charity was one of my top memories as a runner."
He continued:
"Last year's race was something that I will remember for the rest of my life."
For Jonathon and Angela, it wasn't about finishing first.
It was about making an impact.
And thanks to every runner they passed, Ethan's wish became a reality.
Could You Be Our Next Charity Chaser?
Every year, one runner (or team) has the chance to experience race day from an entirely different perspective while making a lasting impact on our community.
If you're looking for a race experience unlike any other—one filled with purpose, excitement, and unforgettable memories—the Eau Claire Marathon Charity Chaser may be for you.
Because sometimes, the best way to race... is to start last. 💙