Flat, Fast, and Full of Heart: Tobacco Road Marathon Elevates Community and Charities

On a crisp March morning, runners lace up their shoes and gather on the flat, scenic trails of Cary, North Carolina. But for the organizers of the Tobacco Road Marathon (TRM), the race goes beyond personal bests or Boston qualifiers. It’s about channeling the passion of the running community into life-changing charitable contributions.

Founded in 2009 by Kazem Yahyapour, an 11-time Boston Marathon finisher, and co-founder Cid Cordosa Jr., owner of Inside-Out Sports, TRM has grown into a cornerstone event for runners nationwide. With an all-volunteer board and over 700 race-day helpers, TRM is a nonprofit powerhouse, raising over $1.8 million for organizations like the American Red Cross, Hope for the Warriors, and the Triangle Rails to Trails Conservancy.

The Tobacco Road Marathon is deeply rooted in community values, bringing together volunteers who dedicate their time and energy alongside runners striving to make a meaningful impact. From the passion of its participants to the collective effort of its supporters, the event exemplifies how shared dedication can drive positive change.

A Course to Remember

The Veradigm Tobacco Road Marathon, scheduled for March 16, 2025, offers runners over 20 miles of the picturesque American Tobacco Trail. The course, known for its flat terrain and downhill finish, has earned accolades from participants and publications alike. In 2014, Runner’s World named it one of the top nine best new marathons.

Reviewers rave about the experience. “I signed up last minute to try for a personal record, and this race delivered,” says one participant. “The course is perfect for PRs, and the volunteers were amazing. I crushed my time by seven minutes!”

Another runner called it “a great flat course, a well-organized race,” while others praised its festive post-race celebration and high-quality medals.

Making an Impact

What truly sets TRM apart is its unwavering commitment to giving back. With 100% of proceeds directed to its partner charities, the marathon ensures that every mile run translates to meaningful contributions. Over the years, TRM has raised over $1.8 million for impactful organizations, including the American Red Cross, Hope for the Warriors, Breakthrough T1D, and the Triangle Rails to Trails Conservancy.

The American Red Cross, one of TRM’s primary beneficiaries, provides critical support during emergencies, offering relief and aid to communities in need. From disaster response to blood donations, every dollar raised helps the Red Cross continue its vital mission of helping neighbors across the street and around the world.

The event’s reach doesn’t stop there. TRM supports wounded veterans and their families through Hope for the Warriors and aids in creating safe recreational spaces with the Triangle Rails to Trails Conservancy. Every partner charity benefits from TRM’s all-volunteer ethos and the generosity of runners, sponsors, and community members.

The community impact extends beyond charity. Each year, thousands of runners and spectators bring economic benefits to Cary’s shops, restaurants, and hotels. Local businesses thrive as the town transforms into a destination for race weekend.

Looking Ahead

As TRM approaches its $2 million milestone in 2025, its mission remains steadfast: bringing people together to run for a greater good. “We’re not just about running,” the organizers emphasize. “We’re about running to make a difference.”

For those who have yet to experience the Tobacco Road Marathon, this is the year to join the movement. Whether it’s chasing a PR, enjoying the scenic trails, or supporting vital charities, TRM offers an opportunity to run with purpose.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this impactful event. Register today at TobaccoRoadMarathon.com and join thousands of runners in making every mile count for the community. Together, we can cross the finish line for a brighter future.