About Us
mission
Spirit Run is presented by Newport Mesa Spirit Run, Inc. (NMSRI), a 501(c)(3) non profit public benefit corporation. NMSRI is operated by a volunteer Board of Directors dedicated to continuing Spirit Run, promoting youth fitness, providing free event entry to underprivileged youth, and donating event net proceeds to benefit youth education, youth fitness, and other youth causes.
Spirit Run’s 42 year history & Beneficiaries
From 1983-2010, PTAs from five Newport Beach elementary schools presented Spirit Run and shared its net proceeds. In 2010, NMSRI was founded to continue Spirit Run. NMSRI’s Board of Directors invited the original five schools to participate as beneficiaries, as well as other Newport Mesa Unified schools, other public and private schools, youth sports programs, and select youth causes.
For the 42nd Annual Spirit Run in 2026, NMSRI is excited to welcome a new beneficiary - the Newport Bay Conservancy (NBC), a non-profit dedicated to protecting and preserving Newport Beach’s Upper Newport Bay (“Bay”) and its watershed.
NBC conducts research and implements science-based management in the Bay’s protected tidelands and uplands.
Working with several partners, NBC restores the Bay, including a major, multi-million-dollar restoration and adaptation of Big Canyon, an area adjacent to Back Bay Drive on Spirit Run’s 5k and Half Marathon courses.
NBC offers educational programs for students of all ages and the general public.
NMSRI’s donation to NBC will benefit NBC’s youth educational programs and other youth activities. NMSRI is also privileged to collaborate with NBC on adding the new race courses and in implementing environmentally friendly measures for presenting Spirit Run.
NMSRI Invites schools, youth sports programs, & other youth causes to Join in the fitness, fun, & funds.
testimonials
“We are beyond thrilled with the incredible success of our fundraising efforts at Spirit Run! Not only did we raise vital funds, but we also had a blast coming together as a community—running, walking, and cheering each other on. ”
— Catherine Crahan, Development Director Waldorf School
“Our team loves the Spirit Run since the fast race course gives us amazing personal records and awesome swag!”
— Ryan Yohn, Coach OC Grit running team
“I have never been in a race with such great enthusiasm and support from the participants. They cheer for everyone from start to finish.”
— Steve Scott - America’s Premier Miler
Why steve loves spirit run.
Watch the video below to learn why America’s Premier Miler, Steve Scott, loves Spirit Run and attends every year.
Steve Scott is an Olympian with the world record for running the most sub-4 minute miles (137 times). He attends Spirit Run to pump up the kids, adults, and families before their races and to distribute awards to race winners.
