If you’re looking for a modern-day running-themed love story for the big screen, this year’s winner of the Cleveland Marathon might have it. On Sunday, Will Loevner of Pittsburgh, Penn., won the marathon in 2:19:44 and immediately dropped down on one knee to pop the question to his girlfriend of one year, Emma Patterson.
Upon video analysis, Loevner did not run with the ring, but was smoothly given it by a friend as he hugged Patterson at the finish line. According to ABC News 5 Cleveland, Loevner planned to propose only if he won the marathon. However, to let a little bit of the pressure off, he decided the proposal would happen regardless of his finish.
Loevner told local news that the anticipation of the proposal made the final miles of this year’s marathon especially meaningful. “It was one of the best miles of my life,” he said. “I was just so excited.”
🎶 Hello, Young Loevners! 🎶 After winning the Cleveland Marathon, Will Loevner got down on one knee and proposed to his girlfriend. More: https://t.co/h8oHuOsY9T Photos: David Pekiewicz, https://t.co/a4YA4W2Cro pic.twitter.com/XJ03LQFzu8
— clevelanddotcom (@clevelanddotcom) May 19, 2024
You might think finish line proposals are cheesy, but the Cleveland Marathon was where the duo met. Loevner met Patterson after winning the Cleveland Marathon last year, and reportedly they went on their first date just days later. Patterson was at the 2023 event, running the half-marathon.
Around 10,000 runners participated in the 2024 Cleveland Marathon weekend, which consisted of a 5K, 10K, half-marathon and marathon. In the half marathon, renowned trail runner Sage Canaday placed second, in 1:11:30.
