Jaylon & Jill: Together to the finish line

Monday, January 5, 2026
THE WOODLANDS, Texas (KTRK) -- The Chevron Houston Marathon is on Sunday, January 11, 2026. For Jaylon Grant, the Marathon is not about the distance, but rather the journey.

"Jaylon is bubbly. He has this spirit about him that is almost angelic," His mom, Whenddi Eberhardt, said.

The 9-year-old is diagnosed with generalized dystonia and cerebral palsy.

"He's not able to walk, yet. I like to say the word yet because I like to keep an optimistic mind," Eberhardt said.

Grant will be competing in the disability field and crossing the finish line with his favorite teammate, Jill Matte.



They met through Ainsley's Angels, which provides special racing chariots and runners to push disabled athletes in races. Together, Jaylon and Jill have participated in about 20 races.

Today, his family affectionately calls Jill Jaylon's auntie.

"When we're not racing, we are hanging out at the house. It's a family," Eberhardt shared.

Jaylon and Jill will be racing their first marathon together this Sunday.

"He gives meaning to running. I remember I do this for him." Jill shared.

About 2026 Chevron Houston Marathon

With all races, including charity entries, officially sold out, the Chevron Houston Marathon is set to make yet another major mark in our city.



Watch ABC13's Chevron Houston Marathon coverage on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026 live at 6:30 a.m. on TV and anywhere you stream. Just search "ABC13 Houston" in your app store.

In 2026, race weekend is Jan. 9-11, with the schedule of events as follows:

Friday, Jan. 9

Houston Marathon Health and Fitness Expo presented by Houston Methodist
10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
George R. Brown Convention Center

Saturday, Jan. 10

We Are Houston 5K presented by Aramco and Chevron
McKinney and Crawford
8 a.m. start



RunFest
Discovery Green, Jones Lawn
7 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Houston Marathon Health and Fitness Expo presented by Houston Methodist
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
George R. Brown Convention Center

Sunday, Jan. 11

The Chevron Houston Marathon and Aramco Houston Half Marathon



Start at Congress and Fannin
6:35 a.m. Marathon & Half Marathon Wheelchair & Handcycle Division
6:45 a.m. Aramco Houston Half Marathon Elite Field
6:55 a.m. Chevron Houston Marathon Elite Field
6:55 a.m. Marathon & Half Marathon Open Field

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