Justin Gregoire, a 16-year-old senior at Merritt Island High School, will run his first marathon on October 11, 2026, as part of the Chicago Marathon. The event marks his first attempt at the 26.2-mile race, which he chose specifically because it has a minimum age requirement of 16. Gregoire is raising money for Salute, Inc., a nonprofit that provides mentorship and employment assistance to veterans in Brevard County. 'Some think it’s crazy!' he said when asked about his teammates’ reaction to the plan. 'But I’ve been training for this since I was 12.'
Gregoire, who runs cross country and track for the Mustangs, discovered the Chicago Marathon after researching options that would allow him to compete legally. He started running regularly at 12 and has since competed in multiple half-marathons. His training plan for the Chicago race includes 50 miles of running per week, with a focus on building endurance for the long-distance challenge. 'I want to push myself,' he said. 'This is about more than just finishing—it’s about supporting veterans who’ve already made huge sacrifices.'
Salute, Inc. has set a fundraising goal of $5,000 for Gregoire’s participation. The nonprofit, based in Titusville, works with veterans to connect them with job opportunities and community resources. Gregoire said he chose the organization because his uncle is a veteran who struggled to find work after leaving the military. 'I want to help others avoid that same struggle,' he said. 'If I can use this race to make a difference, it’s worth every mile.'
The Chicago Marathon is one of the largest in the United States, with over 40,000 runners expected to participate. Gregoire will be among the youngest competitors, but he’s not alone in his efforts. Local businesses and community members have pledged support, with some offering matching donations for every dollar raised. 'This isn’t just about me,' he said. 'It’s about the people who serve and the families who support them.'