Runners cross finish line at the 7 Bridges Marathon

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – The construction on the Walnut Street Bridge paused for a day, making way for one of Chattanooga’s most scenic races, the 7 Bridges Marathon.

Hundreds of runners laced up their shoes, filling Coolidge Park with excitement, determination, and community spirit.

Jay Nevans, race director, says the event continues to grow each year and inspires runners of all levels to take part.

“We’re excited to be here today because our title sponsor, the Georgia Cumberland Conference at the Seventh-day Adventist Church, is passionate about sharing health and fitness with others,” Nevans said. “You might start with the 5K and have a good time, then come back for the 10K, half, or even the full marathon. We have a lot of folks who just walk our half marathon.”

The 7 Bridges Marathon isn’t just about competition, it’s about movement, wellness, and the power of mindset.

Among those cheering from the sidelines were Murphy Abernathy and Molly McKenney, who call themselves the “race day encouragers.”

“It’s an incredible feat to run 26.2 miles,” Abernathy said. “Marathons bring out the best in everybody.”

“It’s just so impressive,” McKenney added. “These people work so hard and put in so much time and determination to be here. To see them accomplish something like this is amazing, it’s just cool to be part of it.”

For many participants, the finish line represented much more than a medal.

It marked personal victories and milestones achieved through months of discipline.

Angel Rivera, a long-time racer, smiled as he caught his breath.

“I’ve done this every single year,” Rivera said. “It’s my 15th half marathon. I did the full the first year, and I’ve kept coming back ever since.”

Jeremy Wetmore said his motivation was simple.

“I’m racing to better my health, have fun, and push myself to see what my body’s capable of,” Wetmore said.

For Sonia Zin, the race was a family affair, and a personal triumph.

“I was so happy because my family was here, my daughter, my son-in-law, my husband, my friends,” she said. “I just didn’t want to let them down. I worked really hard for this. I’m 49, and when someone says I can’t do it, that’s when I do it.”

Throughout the day, runners shared a common message, they do this for their health, their wellness, and to prove to themselves that they can.

If you missed this year’s race, the 7 Bridges Marathon is an annual event, and organizers encourage everyone to sign up next year to experience one of Chattanooga’s most inspiring races.

Click here to visit 7 Bridges Marathon website.