Countless fans flooded the streets to attend the ribbon-cutting grand opening of the highly anticipated The Marathon Collective. The Marathon name continues to align well, as Nipsey's multi-million dollar cannabis business has transitioned into a licensed dispensary that carries his legendary Marathon OG, along with dozens of other premier CBD and THC strains. Just like all of his endeavors, his DNA is seen throughout the shop with gold Marathon flags, wooden architecture, chandeliers, platinum plaques, and marble floors for this state-of-the-art storefront.
Edgar Medina, Hugo Aguilar Edgar Medina, Hugo Aguilar
"Its been a long time coming," says Samiel Asghedom — Nipsey's brother. "Nip, Adam, Fatts, and I always discussed opening a legitimate shop," says Samiel as he also recounts the long journey prior to the legitimate license. "We had spots, running from the police and getting raided...then we got our strand in legit shops, but we always wanted our own shop." His influence on his brother was evident, as he spewed honor and integrity to the highest extent. When asked which Nipsey song captivated how he felt during the opening, he went with "Hussle & Motivate."
Edgar Medina, Hugo Aguilar Amanda Edwards / Getty Images
Prior to the grand opening, a feature-length documentary was released, detailing the early days of his Marathon OG journey. The Marathon Cultivation documentary takes a look at the beginning stages of the Marathon OG and his search to find the cream of the crop quality. His father Dawit Asghedom reminisced on those times during an interview. "I was really worried about the police; I wanted them to have a store legally. I feel much better. This has been three years in the making. We wanted to finish what he started and continue his legacy." Asghedom also says how this adds to The Marathon's legacy: "This is a good example that the rest of the community can see. There are bumps, but you can still do it; that's the message Nip was giving."
Edgar Medina, Hugo Aguilar Edgar Medina, Hugo Aguilar
"We're happy to set roots here, and hopefully, there's more to come in the future," says Jorge Peniche. Nipsey's longtime friend and business partner described the vision for The Marathon Collective. "This is store number one. The plan was to start one at home, and God willing we can open shops in other states." He described his feelings of today as correlated to Nipsey's song "U See Us."
Edgar Medina, Hugo Aguilar The Marathon and legacy continues. The great Nipsey Hussle's impact on his community and the world seems to be growing more than ever. Between Grammys, new shops, a documentary, and literally countless other acts, the marathon truly does continue as this is just the beginning of his visions coming to life. One of the most impactful people of his generation, words such as honor, integrity, respect, visionary, and a plethora of others describe this generational leader. It was an honor to attend this event.
Edgar Medina, Hugo Aguilar Lamar West, Marisa Littlejon
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