Miles that Bind: Sumner
For brothers Jason and Jamie Sumner, the road to the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon began years ago on the trails at Blue Mountain.
Jamie was the one who first convinced Jason to sign up for a Spartan Race - an obstacle-course event that combines trail running with demanding physical challenges such as climbing walls, carrying heavy objects, crawling through mud and, in one of the race’s most memorable traditions, leaping over fire.
What began as a fun challenge between brothers quickly grew into something much bigger.
While Jamie continued participating primarily in Spartan events, Jason developed a deep passion for obstacle-course racing. He competed in races throughout the Northeast, qualified for World Championships in Canada and continually challenged himself to reach new goals.
Then, in 2024, Jason took on a different kind of challenge: the TCS New York City Marathon.
Representing Team Allied Services sponsor Weis Markets, Jason completed his journey through the five boroughs as a member of Team Allied Services while raising funds and awareness for Allied Services and the individuals the organization serves.
For Jamie, watching his brother complete the race was an unforgettable experience.
“As I watched him finish, I made him a promise,” Jamie shared. “If he ever decided to run another New York City Marathon, I would put my name in and run it with him.”
In 2026, that promise will become a reality. Jason is returning to Team Allied Services as an alumni runner and will once again represent Weis Markets. This time, he will have the opportunity to share the experience with Jamie, who will be taking on his first marathon.
“I’m glad to be back with Team Allied Services for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon,” Jason said. “I have the pleasure of running with the best team for an amazing cause, and this year I get to run with my younger brother.”
For Jamie, completing 26.2 miles has been a longtime bucket-list goal. Crossing the finish line with Jason will represent far more than the distance they cover on race day. It will reflect years of encouragement, shared adventures and the influence the brothers have had on one another.
“Sometimes the best journeys are the ones you take with the people who inspire you most,” Jamie said.
Throughout their training, the brothers will continue motivating each other while also supporting their fellow Team Allied Services runners. They understand that preparing for a marathon requires patience, consistency and a strong network of people willing to offer encouragement along the way.
That sense of teamwork is also what makes representing Allied Services so meaningful to them.
“Allied Services makes a tremendous impact by helping people achieve their goals and improve their independence and quality of life,” Jason said. “It is always a great opportunity to support the organization and our fellow team members.”
When Jason and Jamie arrive at the starting line on Staten Island, they will bring years of memories, challenges and shared experiences with them. When they cross the finish line in Central Park, it will mark the completion of Jamie’s first marathon, another chapter in Jason’s running journey, and the fulfillment of a promise made between brothers.
From leaping over fire together at Blue Mountain to running 26.2 miles through New York City, the brothers continue to prove that the most meaningful challenges are often the ones shared with family.
Until then, the training - and their support for one another - continues.
To support Jason and Jamie on their Team Allied Services, please visit their individual fundraising pages below.
Jason: https://fundraisers.nyrr.org/jason-sumner-2
Jamie: https://fundraisers.nyrr.org/jamie-sumner
