Running Toward the Future
Every spring, thousands gather in Cincinnati to celebrate one of the most iconic race weekends in America—the Flying Pig Marathon. With its mix of whimsy, grit, and porcine puns, the Flying Pig has earned its reputation as one of the most joyful running events in the country. But beneath the costumes, finisher medals, and celebratory skyline chili dogs lies a deeply impactful mission that transcends the course itself.
This year, as part of the marathon’s 27th anniversary celebrations, Pig Works awarded 18 scholarships to high school cross-country and track athletes from Greater Cincinnati—its largest class yet. That’s 18 young people whose college paths just got a little clearer, a little more attainable, and a whole lot more inspiring.
These aren’t just awards for fast legs and quick finishes. They’re for students who’ve demonstrated dedication, perseverance, community service, and team spirit. In short, they represent everything the Flying Pig stands for.
Why These Scholarships Matter
In a world where access to education continues to be a formidable barrier for many, a $20,000 scholarship—doled out in $5,000 annual installments—is more than a gift. It’s an investment in the kind of young people who wake up at dawn to run in the cold, who lead warmups without being asked, who juggle AP classes with tempo runs, and who show up for their communities when no one is watching.
It’s also a validation of character. These scholarships don’t just go to the fastest—they go to those who lead with heart, who push through injury, who mentor younger teammates, and who bring joy and resilience to everything they do.
Backed by a Community That Believes in Youth
The scholarships are made possible through the incredible generosity of the Bob and Jeanne Coughlin Foundation, Skyline Chili, and a host of other donors who clearly see the value in investing in the next generation. In 2024, the Coughlin Foundation committed $500,000 to the scholarship fund—an astonishing act of support that reflects both faith in young people and trust in the Flying Pig's mission.
Additional contributors include:
Steve Haussler
Peter Klekamp
Gary Mitchell
Kyle Murray
Oxford Financial Group
The Paul and Sue Verst Foundation
Members of the Pig Works Board of Directors
Together, these donors have turned a road race into a regional engine of educational equity.
Meet the 2025 Flying Pig Scholars
These 18 students—each a testament to grit, character, and athletic excellence—were honored at the annual Scholarship Breakfast at Cincinnati’s Music Hall. The keynote speaker? None other than ultramarathon legend and longtime Flying Pig participant Harvey Lewis, whose own career exemplifies endurance in both sport and life.
Here are the 2025 recipients:
Cameron Bettinger, Walnut Hills High School
Jared Brewer, Cooper High School
Natalie Cimpello, Madeira High School
Pratt Gibson, Indian Hill High School
Alyse Knapschaefer, Loveland High School
Allison Kopser, Ryle High School
Brett Kramer, Sycamore High School
Sophie Krumm, Walnut Hills High School
William Laslo-Haer, Milford High School
Jocelyn Lauckner, Summit Country Day
Harper Mann, Williamstown Senior High School
Declan McGrath, Princeton High School
Alysse Niewoehner, Oak Hills High School
Marissa Poff, Seton High School
Kenneth Rakes, Ross High School
William Sheets, Covington Catholic High School
Suriya Vijayakumar, Mason High School
Evangeline Widjaja, Springboro High School
Each name here tells a story—of early mornings, of finish lines crossed and heartbreaks overcome, of teammates inspired and goals chased through every mile.
More Than a Race
When people think of the Flying Pig, they often think of finish-line celebrations and pink tutus. And sure, that’s part of the charm. But those who truly understand this event know that its beating heart is community. It’s volunteers handing out water. It’s cheering strangers along the sidelines. It’s a scholarship fund that has now helped dozens of students chase dreams far beyond the racecourse.
These 18 scholars are proof that the Flying Pig isn’t just about race weekend. It’s about legacy. It’s about showing young people that their efforts—on the track, in the classroom, and in the community—matter. That they are seen, supported, and worthy of investment.
In a time when so much feels uncertain, watching a group of teenagers receive recognition not just for what they’ve done, but for who they are becoming—that’s something we should all rally behind.
So when the runners take off on May 2, remember that the real finish line stretches far beyond the streets of Cincinnati. It runs through dorm rooms, lecture halls, internships, and future careers. Thanks to the Flying Pig and its generous partners, these students are running not just for time—but toward brighter, bolder futures.