OKC Memorial Marathon releases new Run to Remember podcast

Kristin Fares, podcast host. Photo credit @okcMarathon

On January 13, The Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon announced the release of its first podcast: The Run to Remember podcast. This series will feature new episodes every Thursday leading up to race weekend April 22-24, 2022. After discussing the potential of creating a podcast over the past couple of years, the Memorial staff decided to make it happen in 2022.  

“Podcasts are loved by multiple generations of people,” said Kari Watkins, Executive Director of the Oklahoma City National Memorial. “For us, it’s another way to reach runners and provide meaningful content to anyone involved in the race.” 

Hosted by marathon runner, Kristin Fares, the Run to Remember podcast celebrates the spirit of the OKC Memorial Marathon and features well-known runners, trainers, community members and representatives who will discuss everything race related.  

“I know Kristin, personally, and when we were looking for a podcast host, we couldn’t think of a better fit,” said Watkins. “She’s a mom, runner, former educator, and she had the energy we were looking for. She’s brought some great ideas to the table and provides a sense of authenticity and relatability to the podcast that we think is important.” 

During each episode, listeners will hear a progress report from the race director, training advice from a runner, a segment focused on “Why We Run,” and voices from the community sharing information about the course.  The “Why We Run” segment highlights how this race provides an opportunity where everyone can make a difference, and the community piece shares insight from people in Oklahoma City who speak about why it matters today.  

“The community piece helps people familiarize themselves with the course,” said Watkins. “It was a big deal for us to add northeast Oklahoma City to the course last year. We made some changes because we knew how important it was to include that part of our city. Listening to the people who live, work, and go to church there and how much it means to them to have runners go through the northeast neighborhoods is really special.” 

In the first episode, Kristin and Race Director Kari Watkins sit down with some of those most impacted by the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing — family member Blayne Arthur, survivor Amy Downs and first responder Greg Johnston. They share their stories and discuss the journey to become runners. 

Also in the first episode, one of the most beloved figures in running, Bart Yasso, offers training tips for getting started. Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt talks about the impact and importance of the Marathon. Kari Watkins announces that due to the overwhelmingly positive response from the 2021 Marathon, the 2022 race will again be a two-day event. 

“We are so excited to be among the first Marathons in the country to introduce a podcast,” said Watkins. “We believe this will be motivational for our runners and just as meaningful for the community as we remind everyone of our mission and Why We Run. We hope you’ll please take the time to listen.” 

Red Coyote Running and Fitness owners, Burke and Jon Beck interviewed for the podcast. Photo Credit @okcMarathon

The Run to Remember podcast is available on the Memorial Marathon’s website at okcMarathon.com or on your favorite podcast platform including Apple, Spotify, Google, Amazon and Stitcher. Each episode lasts around 30-45 minutes, which is a great length for shorter training runs, cross-training sessions, or for anyone who wants an engaging listen on their commute to work.  

Registration for the marathon is open. Visit okcmarathon.com for details and links to register.  

“I’m so ready to be back on the streets in April. It’s such an important month for our city,” said Watkins.

“The marathon is a signature piece to honor our past and move our community forward. I encourage you to find a way to engage this year, whether you choose to run, volunteer, or cheer people along on the course, it’s easy to find an opportunity to participate and personally experience the importance of this race.” 

The Run to Remember podcast is sponsored and produced by Knox Studios, a creative studio and production partner for the modern age. 

About the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon 

The Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon is a community-driven event that began in 2001 as a fundraiser for the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum. It consists of five races over two days — Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, Relay and Kids Marathon. A Health & Fitness Expo on Friday and Saturday kicks off race weekend festivities, April 22-24, 2022. The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is the sole beneficiary of Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon proceeds and is the Memorial’s largest fundraiser. To learn more about the Memorial and Museum, visit MemorialMuseum.com. To learn more about the OKC Memorial Marathon, visit okcMarathon.com.