Employees must apply by Nov. 2, 2027. Marketers & community partners must apply by Nov. 9, 2027.




CITGO Fuels Boston Marathon

Everyday Runner Program

Since 1965, the iconic CITGO sign in Kenmore Square has been a fixture of Boston’s skyline and a celebrated landmark along the Boston Marathon course. Standing near mile 25.2, it reminds runners that the finish line is within reach. CITGO strengthened this longstanding connection in 2017 by becoming the Boston Marathon’s Official Fuel Sponsor. Since then, the company has sponsored a group of everyday runners representing CITGO and its communities in one of the world’s most prestigious races.

Runner eligibility, requirements, and bib allocations are reviewed annually and are subject to change.

Employees must apply by Nov. 2, 2027.

Marketers and community partners must apply by Nov. 9, 2027.

* Selected participants will be announced in December.

Eligibility


  • CITGO employees: Full-time employees in good standing. Employee applications are subject to manager and Corporate HR approval.
  • School educators and staff: Employees of designated priority partner public school districts in CITGO operational areas as listed below:
    • Corpus Christi, TX: Corpus Christi ISD and West Oso ISD
    • Houston, TX: Alief ISD and Spring Branch ISD
    • Lake Charles, LA: Calcasieu Parish School Board
    • Lemont, IL: Lemont High School, Lockport High School, Lockport Central Campus, Valley View High School and Lemont-Bromberek School District 113A
  • Active first responders: Firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical technicians and paramedics serving Houston and the areas surrounding our three refineries (Corpus Christi, Lake Charles, Lemont).
  • CITGO Marketer employees: Current direct employees of branded CITGO Marketers.
  • Kenmore Square nonprofit participants: Current employees, staff members, volunteers or Boston area residents willing to fundraise for an eligible Kenmore Square nonprofit.

Requirements


Applicants must have completed a half marathon and/or full marathon before the Boston Marathon.

Applicants must be able to finish the marathon in six hours or less.

Selected runners must commit to traveling two days before race day.

Selected runners must commit to fundraising for an eligible nonprofit through GivenGain, the Boston Marathon's official charity fundraising platform.

(no minimum fundraising amount is required)

Boston Marathon Runner Program FAQs


Can I apply if I previously ran in the Boston Marathon?

Yes, you may apply to run again in the Boston Marathon with the CITGO-sponsored team; however, please note that priority will be given to runners who have yet to run in the Boston Marathon with the CITGO-sponsored team followed by runners who have not been on the team for longer than two years.

Am I eligible to apply if I am planning to run my first half-marathon/full marathon after I apply but before Boston?

Yes, if your first half or full marathon is before the Boston Marathon, you are still eligible to apply.

I ran a marathon over 5 years ago. Am I still eligible to apply?

Yes, if you have done a half marathon within the previous 12 months and/or are planning to run a half or full marathon prior to the Boston Marathon.

Am I required to fundraise?

Yes. CITGO now requires that runners fundraise to better align with the Boston Athletic Association Charity Program and other sponsors. It is common practice for runners to support nonprofit causes as a requirement to gain a guaranteed entry into one of the world's most competitive races. CITGO wants to offer runners the opportunity to create meaningful impact on their local communities. However, the charity will be the runner’s choice, but they must be listed in the GivenGain portal. Unlike our peers, CITGO does not have a fundraising minimum.

Since this is a CITGO work-related event, can I expense my trip if I am a CITGO employee?

No, although this is a CITGO-sponsored event, the activity is optional and not a mandatory work event for CITGO employees.

What expenses does CITGO cover?

CITGO will only cover the following expenses:

  • Boston Marathon registration fee
  • Hotel accommodation (usually Saturday through Tuesday)
  • CITGO branded singlet (must be worn during the race)
  • Runner’s reception (guests included)
  • $50 UBER voucher
Can I travel to Boston early or stay later?

Yes, however, hotel accommodation before Saturday and after race day are at your own expense.

Can I bring family or friends?

Yes, you can bring family or friends with you to Boston. However, all their travel expenses, including flights, hotels, and other incidentals, are their own responsibility.

Can I get a room with two beds?

Rooms with two beds are limited and prioritized for those who have already requested them in their application. If you still need a two-bed room, you must submit your request as soon as possible by emailing Cindy Sheehan at crodri5@citgo.com.

Where do I get my bib?

You will pick up your race bib at the EXPO. Please refer to the CITGO Runners Packet for further details and instructions.

Am I required to wear the CITGO uniform?

Yes, wearing the CITGO singlet top is mandatory for all runners. You are welcome to wear something underneath, but please do not cover the singlet.

Can I wear something else if it is cold?

Yes, you may wear additional layers for warmth such as an undershirt, arm sleeves, leg sleeves, pants, or a hat. However, your CITGO uniform top (singlet) must remain visible and not be covered.

Are meals covered by CITGO?

No, CITGO does not cover meals except for the runner’s welcome reception typically held on Sunday morning before race day.

Is the runner’s welcome reception mandatory?

Yes, the welcome reception provides an opportunity to share last minute logistical details, uniform pick-up, meet the CITGO running team and do a group photo. Your family and friends are welcome to join you.

Is there a family meeting area?

Yes, family and friends are welcome to join the team as they walk to the Bus Loading Zone on Monday morning. Meeting details will be provided on race day morning during the meeting in the lobby. Family and friends can also watch the race from the “1 Mile to Go Party” at Kenmore Square, which features bleachers, a jumbo screen, and a VIP Hospitality area. Please note, there will be a separate RSVP required for this event and more information will be shared closer to the date. There is a CITGO family reunion area near the finish line for runners to meet their family and friends after the race. Exact location will be shared once finalized.

Who do I contact if I have additional questions?

Please direct all questions to the CITGO Corporate Sponsorship Manager, Cindy Sheehan, by emailing crodri5@citgo.com. You may also call (281) 468-0827.