Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon by the numbers: a record-setting year

This story originally appeared on VeloCity. 

A record-breaking 30,000 runners and walkers took part in the 2026 Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon, with participants traveling from all 50 states and 17 countries. The annual race weekend once again brought tens of thousands to city streets, showcasing Oklahoma City’s ability to host large-scale events while drawing national and international participation. 

The event spanned three days, including the Health and Fitness Expo, kids races and senior marathon, with thousands of volunteers supporting race operations and hundreds of thousands of spectators lining the course. The scale of participation reflects both the marathon’s continued growth and its role as one of the city’s most meaningful annual traditions. 

Top finishers 

Marathon 

• Men’s champion: Steven Baker (Tulsa, OK) — 2:23:18 

• Women’s champion: Maddie McQuirk (The Village, OK) — 2:53:22 

Half marathon 

• Men’s champion: Rory Linkletter (Canada) — 1:10:56 

• Women’s champion: Jaci Smith (Dayton, Ohio) — 1:15:52 

Quarter marathon 

• Men’s champion: Chris Floyd (Moore, OK) — 36:26 

• Women’s champion: Mariela Rodas (Guatemala) — 43:26 

5K 

• Men’s champion: Ryan Walker (Norman, OK) — 15:11 * (age 16) 

• Women’s champion: Jenny Simpson (Boulder, CO) — 17:58 

*Walker’s 15:11 finish came nearly two minutes faster than last year’s winning time of 17:05. 

The marathon continues to generate significant visitor activity across Oklahoma City, driving business to hotels, restaurants and local districts throughout the weekend. Its national draw reinforces the city’s growing reputation as a destination for major events. 

At the same time, the race remains rooted in remembrance of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, blending athletic achievement with reflection and community connection. 

From neighborhood cheer zones to volunteer support, the Memorial Marathon reflects a citywide effort that extends beyond race day. As Oklahoma City continues to build its national profile, the event remains one of the clearest examples of both community pride and momentum.