Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon
The Lowdown
The Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon is one of America's most meaningful and inspiring running events, held annually to honor the 168 lives lost in the April 19, 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. Established in 2001, this Boston Marathon qualifying race has grown into a world-class event that attracts over 25,000 participants from all 50 states and numerous countries. The marathon carries profound significance as it transforms a day of tragedy into a celebration of resilience, hope, and the indomitable human spirit. The USATF-certified course showcases the best of Oklahoma City, starting and finishing in the historic Bricktown Entertainment District. Runners traverse through diverse neighborhoods, pass the poignant Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum at mile 3, and experience enthusiastic crowd support throughout the relatively flat and fast course. The route features tree-lined streets, scenic lake views, and vibrant urban landscapes, making it ideal for both personal records and first-time marathoners. With its mild spring weather and well-organized aid stations, the course consistently produces strong finishing times. What truly sets this marathon apart is its extraordinary community spirit and emotional depth. The race begins with 168 seconds of silence and features the iconic "Gates of Time" at the memorial, creating an unforgettable experience that transcends typical racing. Participants consistently rank it among the best-organized marathons in the country, praising the exceptional volunteer support, live entertainment along the course, and the moving finish line celebration. This Boston qualifier offers an opportunity to run with purpose while experiencing genuine Midwestern hospitality in a city that has shown the world the true meaning of resilience.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Major marathon
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Excellent spectator turnout
This race qualifies for the Boston Marathon
Race Weekend
Other distances available
Notable Landmarks
Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
The race passes by the memorial honoring victims of the 1995 bombing, a solemn and iconic portion of the course
Bricktown Canal
Runners follow the scenic Bricktown Canal lined with shops and restaurants, a lively downtown stretch
Myriad Botanical Gardens
A green oasis in the heart of downtown where the course skirts the gardens and reflection pools
Scissortail Park
A large urban park with lawns and views of the skyline, providing a cheering zone and open space along the route
Oklahoma State Capitol
The course runs near the distinctive capitol grounds and domed building, an important civic landmark
Oklahoma River / Boathouse District
Runners pass alongside the riverfront boathouses and regatta facilities, offering flat, fast waterfront scenery
Paycom Center (downtown arena)
The downtown arena is a prominent feature on the course and a recognizable reference point for spectators
OKC, OK, United States
US
Based on nearby accommodations
The race offers a booking portal with partner hotel options
- Must register and have an official race bib to participate
- Minimum age 16 on race day to enter the full marathon (proof of age may be required for awards)
- Open to all genders and nationalities
- Runners must comply with all race rules and instructions from race officials and course marshals
- All participants must sign the online waiver during registration; medical clearance recommended for those with pre-existing conditions
- Official chip timing is required; participants must start and finish in assigned areas to receive an official time
- Course time limit of 7 hours for the marathon; runners falling behind will be moved to alternate transportation for safety
- No unauthorized wheeled devices, strollers, animals, or personal aid stations on the marathon course
- Wheelchair and handcycle divisions follow separate registration and classification rules—contact race organizers for details
- Participants must follow local health and safety protocols in effect on race day
- Photo ID (driver's license or passport)
- Proof of age (driver's license, passport, or birth certificate)
- Signed race waiver/medical release (online)
- Medical clearance/certificate if required for participants with medical conditions or requested by race organizers
- Online Registration
- Charity Entry
- Relay Team
- Virtual Race
- Tour Operator
Cancellation & Refunds
Policy details
No refunds under any circumstances
Bib transfers to another registered runner allowed until 2026-03-15 with a $25 processing fee
Deferral to the 2027 race allowed until 2026-03-01 for a $30 fee
Medical deferrals granted at any time with valid physician documentation; processing fee waived
Virtual race option available; virtual entries are non-refundable
The race finishes at the Oklahoma City National Memorial, and the event honors the victims and survivors of the 1995 bombing with moments of remembrance throughout race weekend.
The weekend includes a runners' expo (typically held at the Cox Convention Center) and a kids' run, plus family-friendly activities in downtown Bricktown.
Finishers receive a technical race shirt and a custom finisher medal, and post-race amenities include food and beverages and a beer garden for participants 21+.
Course support includes aid stations approximately every 2 miles with water, electrolyte drinks, and medical staffing; downtown parking is limited, so plan to arrive early or use recommended shuttle/public-transit options.
Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
Learn from fellow runners and share insights that will help the next person toe the line.