April 8, 2025
We’re thrilled to welcome back several marathon legends this year—and to introduce some new ones to the lineup! Be sure to visit the Legends Booth at the expo, where you can meet these incredible athletes, hear their stories, and get a race poster or one of their books signed.
Presented by:
Joan Benoit Samuelson won a gold medal in the first Olympic Women’s Marathon 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, blazing a trail for generations of runners. A true legend, she continues to shatter limits and inspire athletes worldwide!
One of the most recognized names in Marathon running. Today, Meb is committed to helping others RUN TO OVERCOME, RUN TO WIN – and think like a champion marathoner. Come hear his inspirational story and ask questions of someone who has mastered Boston, New York City, and the Olympics!
Deena Kastor is an Olympic bronze medalist at the 2004 Athens Olympics and one of the greatest American marathoners of all time, with a stunning 2:19 marathon personal best and multiple national records. She is widely regarded as a true icon of the sport.
Dick Beardsley is a former elite long-distance runner best known for his thrilling second-place finish in the 1982 Boston Marathon. A motivational speaker and author, he has inspired many with his resilience in overcoming personal challenges. Beardsley remains a beloved figure in the running community for his perseverance and passion for the sport.
Dokotah was born just days after the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995. She will tell her story of winning Grandma’s Marathon back-to-back where Dakotah’s 2022 victory made her the 12th fastest United States Marathoner of all time. She also represented the United States in the Olympics in Paris, France last summer.
Bill Rodgers is a running legend best known for his four Boston Marathon victories and four consecutive New York City Marathon wins between 1976 and 1979 — and after 50 years, he hasn’t slowed down.
Marko Cheseto is a Kenyan-born All-American athlete with an inspirational story of loss and courage, who set a world record at the 2019 Boston Marathon for a double amputee marathoner.
Jerry Faulkner is a native Oklahoman and 2006 Memorial Marathon champion who has also claimed two Half Marathon titles here. He now lives in New York City, serves as a Running Field Specialist for Adidas Running, and was a Duathlon United States National Champion in 2021.
Dan Little holds the record as the oldest person to complete a World Marathon Challenge. That’s 7 marathons, in 7 days, on 7 continents! He’s also a native Oklahoman, hailing from Madill!
Whit Raymond is a legendary voice in endurance sports, electrifying Ironman races, marathons, and triathlons worldwide since 1993. His boundless energy, deep knowledge, and engaging commentary make every event unforgettable. Whether at the finish line or behind the mic, Whit brings the thrill of competition to life!
Mark Bravo is a professional running coach and announcer. He is a great ambassador for the OKC Memorial Marathon and encourages every athlete who laces up their shoes and gets them ready to run!
- Category: 2025