Race Results and Winners
Chris Floyd won the 2026 Quarter Marathon. Floyd was recovering from an injury but expressed gratitude for the victory, telling News 9 that it was for a great cause. The lead male marathon runner was being tracked by News 9's David Payne during the event.
Participant Numbers and Schedule
Approximately 30,000 runners participated in Sunday's races alone. Saturday races included the 5K at 7 a.m., Senior Marathon at 8 a.m., and Kids Marathon at 9 a.m. Sunday's longer races—Full Marathon, Half Marathon, and Quarter Marathon—all began at 6:30 a.m. The wheelchair division also participated in the event.
Pre-Race Ceremonies and Traditions
The marathon began with runners pausing for 168 seconds before the start in remembrance. The Blessing of the Shoes ceremony was held the night before at First Church at 5th & Robinson, offering runners a quiet moment to reflect and pray. Kari Watkins, Oklahoma City Memorial President & CEO, spoke before the race began.
Race Day Coverage and Logistics
News 9 provided live coverage throughout the weekend. Jennifer Pierce reported from the starting line where runners took pictures with Rumble the Bison. Colby Thelen and Lisa Monahan reported from Gorilla Hill, located approximately 7 miles into the marathon course. Road closures began at 6 a.m. and roads reopened by 1:40 p.m. on Sunday. A closure along NW 10th Street near Interstate 235 impacted access to downtown Oklahoma City.
Economic and Community Impact
The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber projected more than 690,000 people would attend the weekend's events, which also included the Festival of the Arts and the Better Barrel Races World Finals. The estimated direct economic spend exceeded $29 million. The event showcased the Oklahoma Standard to the rest of the country and world.