Boston Marathon

Every year, MDSC assembles a team of dedicated runners to take on the historic Boston Marathon as an official charity team — each one running 26.2 miles from Hopkinton to Copley Square in support of individuals with Down syndrome and their families. It’s one of our most beloved annual traditions, and a powerful way for runners of all backgrounds to make a meaningful difference while taking on one of the world’s greatest races. Applications to join Team MDSC open each fall — stay tuned for details on how to apply for 2027!

In 2026, our team of 10 remarkable runners completed the journey on April 20th, raising more than $150,000 for critical programs and services for the Down syndrome community. We are so proud of our 2026 Team MDSC runners: Steven Ponte, Debbie Sutter, Haruki Watanabe, Lindsay Mann Mittura, Joshua Komyerov, Isabel Gabriel, Alden Huang, Godfrey Mramba, Carlie Siegel, and Annie Murphy.

Thank you to every runner, donor, and supporter who made the 2026 Boston Marathon an unforgettable one for our mission.

MDSC is a proud official charity of the Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America. Through this program, dozens of dedicated individuals have had the opportunity to fulfill their personal dream and run the Boston marathon in honor of people with Down syndrome. This Program provides over 1000 Boston Marathon® bibs to select non-profit organizations throughout the community, which provides organizations with a significant fundraising opportunity.

If you’re interested in learning more about how you can support Team MDSC or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at race@mdsc.org.

Benefits of running for Team MDSC include:

  • Charity runners will receive and official bib into the Boston Marathon;
  • Coached by CharityTeams, which provides runners with the guidance and encouragement to successfully meet the goals of both running and fundraising;
  • Personalized online fundraising page and fundraising support from the MDSC and CharityTeams;
  • Running singlet;
  • Transportation to race starting line;
  • Invitation to MDSC pre-race event;
  • Access to participate in organized weekly group runs on the Boston Marathon® course complete with aid station support;
  • Weekly communications and monthly meetings with guest speakers;
  • Gear to wear before, during and after running;
  • Positive team experience and memorable journey of running the historic Boston Marathon!

Our runners, in their own words

My wife Ann, and I have a 5 year old son Sean who has Down Syndrome. Sean was born one month early, and diagnosed with a mitral valve heart defect. Despite these diagnoses he has amazed us ever since. Sean has grown to be a healthy 5 year old boy, and started kindergarten this year in an integrated classroom. He has transitioned well to his new class, and continues to be amazing everyday. He has a way of making everyone that interacts with him smile, and is making quite a splash at the Roosevelt Elementary School. Our family is blessed to have Sean in it. We continue to do everything we can to support him, and all others with Down Syndrome as well as their families.”

– Michael Plumer, 4-time Team MDSC member

Falmouth Road Race

Every August, more than 20 runners, both first-timers and old-timers, earn spots on MDSC’s team to compete in the Asics Falmouth Road Race. Known as one of the best non-marathon races in the country, this seven-mile course thrills runners as they hug the scenic Cape Cod’s shoreline. Please note: Qualified runners who get a waiver can also join the team.

As a registered MDSC team member, you are guaranteed:

  • an official number in the race
  • a special MDSC running singlet
  • an invitation to join us at our pre-race luncheon on the weekend of the race in Falmouth
  • and much more!

To learn more about the Falmouth Road Race, please email race@mdsc.org

 

Race for Awareness

If you are participating in another endurance event and would like to support the MDSC as part of your journey, please reach out to the MDSC! We will set you up with your own personal fundraising page and provide you with a MDSC singlet.

If you are interested in participating in a Race for MDSC event or have other questions, email us at race@mdsc.org.