As marathon runners made it to mile 24.5, they were greeted Sunday morning by a number of friendly and encouraging volunteers handing out water and encouragement. 

The official water station at mile 24.5 was run by congregants at Fort Garry Mennonite Brethren Church, which is conveniently located along Pembina Highway, just across from where the route is set.

"Two years ago I was driving to church and realized there are literally hundreds of people running by the front of our church building," said Youth Pastor Janessa Giesbrecht. "That was something that we needed to be involved in as a church that's living out that it values the community."

Last year, the church ran an unofficial water station, which was well-attended with volunteers. This year, they reached out to the Manitoba Marathon about setting up an official station. Volunteers both young and old came out again, wearing the marathon's volunteer shirts and reminding each person who crossed their path how close they were to the finish.

"I think they're just excited to be a part of something that connects us to the larger city," Giesbrecht said.

Giesbrecht says handing out water on race day is a tangible and easy way to be involved with the community, but also a necessary one. She pointed out how many runners said thank you when passing the station, whether they took water or not.

The youth pastor has been very encouraged by this and believes they will be doing this for the next few years.

"I didn't know if anyone would jump on board," Giesbrecht laughed. "I think we'll be doing this for a long time."