Industry-inspired inclusion initiative as the iconic Orlando race prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026 \ ORLANDO, FL (December 5, 2025) – Today, Track Shack, a specialty running and walking store in Orlando and producer of road race events, announced the introduction of a new Intellectual Impairments Division that will debut at the 2026 OUC Orlando Half Marathon, marking a significant stride in the event’s longstanding mission to create one of the most inclusive running experiences in the Southeast.
The announcement was made during a press conference at The Plaza Live as athletes arrived for the Expo & Bib pickup presented by Brooks ahead of the 2025 race weekend. Adaptive athletes Chris Nikic, Caleb Prewitt, and others joined Track Shack leadership and OUC representatives to celebrate the news and share their perspective on the impact of the new division.
This new Intellectual Impairments Division reflects a growing, industry-wide movement to ensure distance running is more inclusive for adaptive athletes. By creating competitive opportunities for athletes with intellectual impairments, Track Shack joins organizers for major races such as the Boston Marathon and the Bank of America Chicago Marathon that are leading the way in celebrating diversity and accessibility across the sport.
“As we approach the 50th anniversary of this renowned event, we are proud to continue expanding what it means to welcome all athletes,” said Alicia Albert, senior event director for Track Shack. “The Intellectual Impairments Division represents both the evolution of our sport and our deep commitment to ensuring that every athlete has the opportunity to be seen, supported, and celebrated on race day.”
A New Era of Inclusion
Beginning in 2026, athletes with intellectual impairments will have the option to register for the new official division during the standard race registration process. Awards will be presented to the top male and female athletes (age 14+) in the division.
Track Shack is aligning the new division with guidance from World Para Athletics Classification, a global standard defining intellectual impairment within sport as a restriction in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior affecting conceptual, social, and practical skills necessary for daily life.
“A division like this creates visibility, opportunity, and belonging,” said Chris Nikic, the first person with Down syndrome to complete an IRONMAN. “It brings the neurodiverse community into the event with dignity and respect and shows what’s possible when communities lift everyone up.”
Adaptive athlete Caleb Prewitt, who is participating in this year’s DTO Challenge, echoed the excitement: “Being included in this way means so much. It opens the door for more athletes like me to be recognized for our hard work and passion.”
A Parent’s Perspective: Opening Doors for More Athletes
“As a parent of a young man living with Down syndrome, advocacy has been part of our journey since day one,” said Karen Prewitt, mother and running partner of athlete Caleb Prewitt. “Inclusion – whether in school, work, or recreation – is something all families hope for. For us, that includes training and racing together. When races recognize athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the effort they put into their training, it’s a beautiful thing. Adding the Intellectual Impairments Division acknowledges that these athletes deserve to compete alongside everyone else. It opens doors, expands opportunities, and strengthens community. We are deeply grateful.”
Honoring 50 Years of Community Impact
The 2026 OUC Orlando Half Marathon marks 50 years of racing tradition, community spirit, and athletic achievement in Central Florida. The addition of the Intellectual Impairments Division is the latest chapter in Track Shack’s efforts to honor the event’s legacy by continually improving the athlete experience.
“For half a century, this race has brought people together,” said Jon Hughes, co-owner of Track Shack. “As we look ahead, our focus is on building a future that reflects the diversity and strength of our entire running community. This new division is an important part of that vision.”
Registration Information
Athletes may select the Intellectual Impairments Division at registration beginning with the 2026 event starting Saturday, December 6, 2025 at www.trackshack.com. Those who need to update a current registration profile or request additional information may contact info@trackshack.com.
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About the OUC Orlando Half Marathon
Forty-eight years running, the OUC Orlando Half Marathon has been one of the top half marathons in the southeast. The OUC Orlando Half Marathon has received Silver and Gold certifications by the Council for Responsible Sport. It is the first event in Florida to earn any level certification by the Council, the world’s leading sustainability certification program dedicated to supporting, certifying, and celebrating responsible sports events and organizations. OrlandoHalfMarathon.com
About OUC—The Reliable One
For more than 100 years, OUC—The Reliable One has provided exceptional value to its customers and community through the delivery of sustainable and reliable services and solutions. The utility provides electric, water, chilled water, lighting and solar services to more than 400,000 accounts in Orlando, St. Cloud and parts of unincorporated Orange and Osceola counties. As OUC prepares for the next century, it remains committed to its goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 while supporting its community with conservation, sustainability and energy efficiency resources. Visit www.ouc.com to learn more.
About the Track Shack Family of Companies
Track Shack of Orlando opened for business in 1977 as a small retail operation focused on selling running shoes and apparel. Owners Jon and Betsy Hughes were awarded Florida’s Retailer of the Year 2015 by the Florida Retail Federation. Jon and Betsy also own Track Shack Events, a sports marketing company that specializes in marketing, management, and production of active lifestyle events. The award-winning professional staff has earned Track Shack Events a reputation as one of America’s top sports marketing companies. Track Shack Events co-produced the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials – Marathon in Orlando. The mission of Track Shack Events is that each event produced will benefit the entire community – runners and walkers, sponsors, and charities. Run to TrackShack.com.
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