OUC once again brought energy, sustainability and community pride to downtown Orlando during the 49th annual OUC Orlando Half Marathon Weekend, held December 6–7, 2025.
As presenting sponsor for more than 25 years, OUC has proudly supported this longtime race, which has grown into a multiday experience that strengthens community engagement, supports local businesses and showcases our commitment to environmental responsibility.
This year marked an exciting evolution with the launch of the OUC Orlando Half Marathon Weekend, expanding the event to four days. The event included a two-day expo filled with pre-race activities, OUC activations, vendors and environmental education.
OUC’s outdoor activation at the races’ expo which was held at The Plaza Live in Orlando.
Following the expo, the OUC Half Marathon took place on Saturday, followed by the Lake Eola 5K on Sunday. Runners who participated in both races earned the DTO 16.2 Challenge presented by Orangetheory Fitness. Holding the races over two days doubled OUC’s downtown visibility, gave runners unique experiences and increased the economic impact for local businesses, helping position Orlando as a race destination.
Race participation grew by 24% over last year, with 4,609 runners — 3,372 in the Half Marathon and 1,237 in the 5K — plus hundreds of friends and family members cheering along the course. Employee engagement also rose, with 113 OUC employees and their families participating in the races, along with nearly 30 OUC volunteers.
OUC employees and volunteers before the OUC Half Marathon on Saturday, Dec. 6.
OUC’s Marketing team led the utility’s presence throughout the four-day event, engaging the community through interactive booths, electric vehicle demos, and sustainability-focused giveaways.
Erin Givens, Vegetation Manager, and Katherine Gault, Vegetation Management Specialist, helped strengthen the race’s reputation as the most sustainable in the Southeast by hosting a free tree giveaway and leading an educational seminar about the importance of proper tree placement around utility infrastructure. With support from volunteers, OUC distributed nearly 5,000 free trees over the four-day event.
Volunteers hand out trees during the OUC Orlando Half Marathon post-race celebration.
Looking ahead, OUC and Track Shack will continue to grow the event. In 2026, a new division for athletes with intellectual impairments will debut, further broadening inclusivity and celebrating runners of all abilities.
Want a recap of the event? Nick Smith, Sr. Product Analyst, shared his journey in great video — click here to check it out. While you’re there be sure to follow our Instagram page (@oucreliableone)!
