Why Marathon Proposals Spark Controversy in 2025

A new wave of marathon proposals has gone viral, and while some call them heartwarming, others are pushing back. The issue? Many believe these public displays shift the spotlight from the runner’s hard-earned achievement to the person proposing.

Let’s break down what’s happening, why people are frustrated, and how deeper gender dynamics are shaping the reaction.

What’s Happening at the Finish Line?

In recent months, multiple videos have surfaced of men proposing to their partners as they cross the finish line of a marathon. One TikTok video, posted by U.K. runner Sarah John, shows her smiling as her boyfriend proposes moments after her run. It has racked up over 2.3 million views.

@sarahjohn69 No I’m still not over this incredible moment #proposal #engagement #running #marathon #runtok #girlsthatrun #runner #marathonrunner #engaged #fyp ♬ Northern Attitude – Noah Kahan & Hozier

Sarah called it an “incredible moment.” But many commenters had a different take.

“She’s happy, but he made it about himself,” one user wrote.
“He stole her moment,” said another.

This isn’t a one-off. These public proposals at races have become a recurring trend, sparking questions about timing, context, and attention.

Why Are People Upset?

For many, it’s about timing

Running a marathon takes months of physical and mental preparation. Completing one is an accomplishment that belongs to the runner. Critics argue that proposing at the finish line shifts attention to the partner—usually a man—and away from the woman’s achievement.

“It takes away from the focus of the finish line performance,” said Angela Schneider, Olympic silver medallist and director of the International Centre for Olympic Studies.

Schneider called it a “strange practice” and suggested there are more appropriate moments to propose.

Is This Just a Social Media Trend?

Not entirely. Marathon proposals aren’t new, but they’ve grown more visible with social media. They often feature:

• A woman finishing a race
• A man appearing with a ring
• A cheering crowd and emotional moment

While it looks spontaneous, many see it as a pattern of attention redirection, especially when women athletes are involved.

A Larger Pattern: Women’s Success, Men’s Spotlight

This trend reflects a deeper cultural issue. Dr. Michelle Donnelly, a sport management professor at Brock University, says these proposals echo how media often highlight the role of male coaches, partners, or support systems when women succeed.

She points to examples like:

• Olympic swimmer Katinka Hosszú, whose husband/coach got more media attention than her gold medal in 2016
  
• U.S. shooter Corey Cogdell, described as a football player’s wife rather than by her name
  

These instances suggest a long-standing habit of centering men in women’s achievements, often unintentionally.

Are All Marathon Proposals the Same?

Not necessarily. Donnelly notes that context matters.

In Sarah John’s case, her fiancé reminded her to stop her running watch—a small gesture that indicated he understood the moment was still about her. John later said it was the “most thoughtful, perfect proposal” for her, showing a level of support and timing that not every proposal offers.

“Not all marathon proposals are created equal,” Donnelly said.

The Physical Challenge Behind the Finish Line

Finishing a marathon is more than just a race. It’s an intense, months-long effort.

According to Very Well Health, after two hours of running, the body runs out of quick energy (glycogen and carbs) and starts burning fat. This drains the runner’s energy even more.

Historically, women were excluded from major marathons. The first Olympic women’s marathon wasn’t until 1984, when Joan Benoit won gold in Los Angeles. That wasn’t long ago.

Viral Finish Lines and Family Drama

The debate isn’t limited to proposals. Last year, a video went viral of Brazilian personal trainer Luciana Grandi Lourenção—dubbed “marathon mom”—dodging her kids at the finish line of a half marathon. Her husband had pushed their daughters onto the course.

The comments were divided. Some said she ignored her kids. Others argued her husband sabotaged her moment, highlighting how women’s goals are often seen as secondary to family roles.

So, Should People Stop Proposing at Races?

There’s no clear answer. Some runners love the gesture, especially if it’s thoughtful and reflects shared passions. Others find it intrusive and tone-deaf, especially when it shifts attention to someone who didn’t run 42.2 kilometers.

If there’s one takeaway, it’s this: Ask yourself who the moment is really for.

Marathon proposals may look sweet on the surface, but they raise valid questions about gender, recognition, and the way we celebrate women’s success. Some runners, like Sarah John, welcome the gesture. Others want the finish line to remain about personal achievement—not relationship milestones.

In the end, timing—and intention—matter.

More…

• https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/maid-medical-assistance-in-dying-new-brunswick-1.7491714 
• https://www.msn.com/en-ca/news/canada/men-keep-proposing-to-women-runners-during-marathons-it-makes-some-people-angry/ar-AA1BBl4V
• https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/man-proposes-girlfriend-she-finishes-083000104.html