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    Run to Remember Memorial Marathon Podcast

    The Run to Remember podcast celebrates the spirit of the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon. Each week, you’ll hear from runners, trainers, community members and representatives who discuss everything race-related: latest updates, the course, achieving your running goals and, of course, Why We Run. Listen in and learn how we are working to make this a race where everyone can make a difference.
    en46 Episodes

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    Episodes (46)

    Too Cold to Train?

    Too Cold to Train?

    A runner shares the power of his relay team that celebrates their colleagues and the mission of the Run to Remember.

    Winter weather doesn’t stop runners but what’s the smart way to train? The Marathon’s Medical Director has essential tips. 

    And hear some convincing ideas why you should volunteer race weekend – even if you are a runner!

    Visit OKCMarathon.com and follow the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest updates.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OKCMarathon
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/okcmarathon
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okcmarathon

    More In Store for '24!

    More In Store for '24!

    Happy New Year! It’s time to kick off training for the 2024 #RUNtoREMEMBER.

    Host Kristin Fares, and Race Director Kari Watkins, catch up with the 2023 Marathon and Half Marathon winners and why they both say this race is a “must do.” Wondering about your upcoming training weather? News 9’s Chief Meteorologist David Payne shares his look ahead. The Run to Remember Podcast will be available in video this season thanks to our new recording partner, Griffin Media.

    Visit okcMarathon.com and follow the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on social media for the latest updates.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/okcMarathon

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okcmarathon

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@okcmarathon

    2023 Post-Race Wrap Up

    2023 Post-Race Wrap Up

    The 2023 Oklahoma Memorial Marathon is officially behind us! It was an inspiring weekend of reflection, determination, celebration and remembrance.

    In this final episode of the season, hear post-race reactions from Marathon winners Al Maeder and Kristi Coleman, Half Marathon winners Andrew Leahey and Kristen Vaughn, Relay winners The Coaches Collective and 5K winners Luis Chavez and Natalie Duggan.

    Then, Mayor David Holt and his daughter and Debreon Davis and her niece and nephew share their experiences running the Kids Marathon, and Senior Marathon ambassadors Linda Cavanaugh and Jane Jayroe reflect on the new race for runners 65 and up.

    Plus, Memorial Marathon co-founder David Hill shares his thoughts on the Marathon’s powerful mission.

    Visit www.OKCMarathon.com and follow the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest updates. See you in 2024!

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OKCMarathon
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/okcmarathon
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okcmarathon

    Live from the 2023 Expo

    Live from the 2023 Expo

    Experience the excitement of the 2023 Memorial Marathon Health & Fitness Expo during a special live broadcast of the Run to Remember! Host Kristin Fares and Race Director Kari Watkins speak to a full lineup of guests, including Oklahoma City bombing survivor Amy Downs and family members Ryan Whicher, Meredith Highland and Cindy and Albert Ashwood.

    Hear from running legends Joan Benoit Samuelson, Dick Beardsley, Bill Rodgers, Jerry Faulkner, Marko Cheseto and Ellie Deglau McGriff. Other guests include KWTV News 9’s Amanda Taylor, Karl Torp and David Payne, Memorial trustee Chris Fleming, Marathon announcer Whit Raymond, runners Lottie Fares and Caroline Watkins, Perry Weather Consulting’s Colin Perry and Race Weekend yoga instructor Jennifer Henry and her longtime running partner Sally Shelton. Plus, Rachel and John Foster share her remarkable journey from brain injury to marathoner.

    Visit www.OKCMarathon.com and follow the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest updates. See you in 2024!

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OKCMarathon
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/okcmarathon
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okcmarathon

    See You at the Start Line

    See You at the Start Line

    The 2023 Memorial Marathon is finally here! So, what should you be doing between now and Marathon Weekend? We asked roundtables of runners to share tips, advice and insights and to talk about why they run.

    Then, we asked our listeners and runners if they had any last-minute questions. From course time limits and gear check to relay exchanges, security and more, you’ll hear about “Things to Know Before You Go.”

    Next, Nichols Hills United Methodist Church’s Reverend Trevor Smith stops by to tell us about their two outdoor services on Sunday and why Marathon Sunday is special for both his congregants and runners.

    And finally, hear Oklahoma City Thunder General Manager Sam Presti’s recent inspirational remarks about the Marathon during his NBA end-of-season press conference.

    The 2023 Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon takes place the weekend of April 28th through the 30th.

    Follow the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest marathon updates and visit www.OKCMarathon.com to sign up to run, volunteer or learn more.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OKCMarathon
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/okcmarathon
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okcmarathon

    Plan Your Race Weekend

    Plan Your Race Weekend

    Race Weekend is a little over a week away, and it all begins at the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon Health & Fitness Expo, presented by OU Health and Visit OKC! This week, OU’s Kelli Hayward Walsh tells us what runners and attendees can expect at the Expo, plus details on the can’t-miss events and why it gets better every year.

    Then, Oklahoma City Assistant City Manager and EMBARK Director/Administrator Jason Ferbrache stops to tell us why the streetcars are best way to navigate around downtown Oklahoma City, plus they’re free for everyone during Race Weekend.

    And finally, Chickasaw Nation Secretary of Commerce Dan Boren explains why the Nation has been a steadfast supporter of the Memorial and the Marathon, and why they are bringing back shuttles for Relay runners this year.

    The 2023 Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon takes place the weekend of April 28th through the 30th.

    Follow the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest Marathon updates and visit www.OKCMarathon.com to sign up to run, volunteer or learn more.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OKCMarathon
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/okcmarathon
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okcmarathon

    Why We Run

    Why We Run

    As we enter this week of remembrance leading up to April 19, hear from a powerful lineup of guests who remind us Why We Run.

    On April 19, 1995, Congressman Frank Lucas, representing Oklahoma’s 6th district, was in Dallas with the Oklahoma congressional delegation. That morning, he learned from a reporter that an explosion occurred in downtown Oklahoma City, just over a block away from his own office. From that moment, he has been a vocal advocate for those killed, their families, the survivors and first responders. Hear his account from that harrowing day, including the search for his injured staff members and how he was forever changed.

    Nick Chafey was just four years old when his mother, Rona Linn Kuehner-Chafey, was killed in the Oklahoma City bombing. Twenty-eight years later, he’s honoring her memory and the memory of the 168 killed by volunteering his athletic training services alongside on-course medical chairman and his mentor Ed Sunderland. Together they reflect on Nick’s and his family’s journey and remind us Why We Run.

    And finally, there’s one pandemic-related change to the Memorial Marathon that’s here to stay: the Why We Run Weekend series. Instead of all races occurring on one day, six races are now split between two days, allowing runners to experience the Marathon in a more meaningful way with the 5K on Saturday and the half or full Marathon on Sunday. Memorial Marathon ambassador Jennifer Hilger is just one of these runners and stops by to explain why she Runs to Remember on Saturday and Sunday.

    Follow the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest marathon updates and visit www.OKCMarathon.com to sign up to run, volunteer or learn more.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OKCMarathon
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/okcmarathon
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okcmarathon

    A Community United

    A Community United

    Keri Young was grief-stricken when she lost her daughter to anencephaly. Just days later, she and her husband, Royce, found themselves at the Oklahoma City National Memorial, a place of remembrance, peace and hope. Already veterans of the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon, they ran the Kids Marathon just two weeks later in honor of their daughter, Eva. This week, Keri tells us how the Marathon continues to be source of comfort for her and her family.

    Then, if you’ve ever asked anyone what sets the Memorial Marathon apart from others, they’ll give you two answers: We Run to Remember the 168 killed on April 19, 1995 and tremendous support that runners feel from the vibrant and diverse neighborhoods along the course. Representatives from the Crown Heights, Asian District and Lincoln Terrace neighborhoods explain how they’re getting ready for Race Day and what runners can expect.

    And to close the episode, Ainsley’s Angels Central Oklahoma Ambassador Chris Brinkley stops by to explain how his organization provides opportunities for special needs children to participate in endurance events such as the Memorial Marathon.

    Plus, hear from two University of Oklahoma students who volunteered with the Memorial Marathon for OU’s Big Event, the university’s official day of community service.

    Follow the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest marathon updates and visit www.OKCMarathon.com to sign up to run, volunteer or learn more.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OKCMarathon
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/okcmarathon
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okcmarathon

    Accepting the Challenge

    Accepting the Challenge

    Broadcast journalist Linda Cavanaugh was on assignment in Vietnam on April 19, 1995. After learning of the Oklahoma City bombing in the middle of the night on Vietnam state television, she rushed home to join her KFOR News team in the wall-to-wall coverage. Linda recounts her time covering the bombing and its aftermath and anchoring the Memorial Marathon. Plus, she has a new role as Senior Marathon ambassador.

    Then, seven marathons on seven continents in seven days: this is the World Marathon Challenge. And at 80 years old, Madill, Oklahoma, native Dan Little has broken records by running not once, but twice. He stops by to discuss how he completed this tremendous feat and why he Runs to Remember.

    And to close the episode, Memorial Marathon Relay co-chairs Samantha Bentson and Keelee Bright tell us everything there is to know about the relay and what teams can expect on Race Day.

    Follow the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest marathon updates and visit www.OKCMarathon.com to sign up to run, volunteer or learn more.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OKCMarathon
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/okcmarathon
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okcmarathon

    Leading By Example

    Leading By Example

    Whether he’s running in a flak jacket and Kevlar in the Iraqi Green Zone or with his fellow tribal citizens on a Memorial Marathon relay team, Comanche Nation’s new Chairman and retired Lt. Colonel Mark Woommavovah has an unwavering passion for running. Learn why the Marathon holds a special place in his heart.

    Then, representatives from Mercy, the official sponsor of the Senior Marathon, and the Greater Oklahoma City YMCA, the official training partner, talk about the new Senior Marathon. Dave Huslig and Olivia Henderson share their expert tips and explain how they’re helping seniors train for this new race.

    And last, get the inside scoop on another first, the new Finish Line Festival beer garden! Blake Jarolim of COOP Ale Works, Blaine Stansel of Roughtail Brewing Company and Patrick Lively from Lively Beerworks explain why they were inspired to bring their local Oklahoma beers to the Memorial Marathon’s celebration in Scissortail Park. Free local brews for runners over 21! Plus, learn what running and the Marathon means to them.

    Follow the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest marathon updates and visit www.OKCMarathon.com to sign up to run, volunteer or learn more.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OKCMarathon
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/okcmarathon
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okcmarathon

    The Resilience of Running

    The Resilience of Running

    The Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon has long been a Boston qualifying event, but after the Boston Marathon was also targeted by terrorism in 2013, the two races now share a unique bond, forged by tragedy, determination and hope. Boston Marathon Race Director Dave McGillivray joins us to recount the moments and days after the bombs went off at the finish line. He also shares why he’s run this iconic race 50 times and how the entire racing community became “Boston Strong.”

    Then, from professional Olympic runners like Joan Benoit Samuelson to first-time marathoners, pacers can help you keep a specific time or even set a new PR. And Red Coyote pacers Mike Sullivan and Josh Lacan are here to explain how.

    And last, the Memorial Marathon has a new and improved process for gear check this year. Find out what to expect and why it’s more convenient from the Mobile Locker Company’s Laura Driscoll.

    Plus, Race Director Kari Watkins catches up with Governor Kevin Stitt after the recent Governor’s Training Run.

    Follow the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest marathon updates and visit www.OKCMarathon.com to sign up to run, volunteer or learn more.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OKCMarathon
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/okcmarathon
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okcmarathon

    Running With Purpose

    Running With Purpose

    Have you ever thought about hiring a running coach for your marathon training? Running coaches aren’t just for professional athletes or career marathoners and can help you achieve your goals by making you faster and stronger. Veteran coach Mark Bravo and his client Cody Perrault are here to explain what coaching sessions look like and what kind of gains you can expect.

    Then, we dive into all things Kids Marathon with Nichols Hills Elementary School Principal Aaron Kellart, Kids Marathon Race Director Kelly Burleson and Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum Education and Special Projects Coordinator Margo Naifeh. From how the Kids Marathon works and school rallies to how children with special needs can participate and the importance of teaching children about the events of April 19, 1995, this segment is dedicated to our youngest Marathon Weekend participants.

    And last, for Memorial Marathoner and music teacher Tara Light, running and singing go hand-in-hand. She stops by to tell us about her unique Race Day, first singing the National Anthem at the Start Line with her family’s a capella group Wild and Sweet, and then running with them in the relay.

    Follow the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest marathon updates and visit www.OKCMarathon.com to sign up to run, volunteer or learn more.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OKCMarathon
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/okcmarathon
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okcmarathon