Runners to hit the road for new half marathon

With most running events postponed, turned virtual, or cancelled over the past year, runners are eager to get back out and on the road for in-person racing. This reality presents one of many reasons why Chamber member Red Coyote’s inaugural half marathon on May 9th brings enthusiasm to Oklahoma City!

With multiple training programs, weekly Pack Pint Runs, a welcoming staff, and a passionate community of supporters, Red Coyote has helped shift and shape healthier lifestyles for individuals across the metro. It’s only fitting for the organization to offer their own racing event.

Organizing a half marathon for the city has been a long-term goal of Red Coyote’s team, and the changes seen throughout the past year have given the organization a great opportunity to make it happen.

“We want it to be celebratory, inclusive, and a chance to reflect on the last year and get back out there together,” said Burke Beck, co-owner and founder of Red Coyote.

It’s certain to be all of that--and more. In addition to being the start of an annual event for Oklahoma City, the race presents another exciting “first.” Part of the course passes through Scissortail Park, making it the first official racing event to run through our city’s new urban oasis. The course will also include the Boathouse District and Oklahoma River Trails.

With correlating missions to give back to the community, Red Coyote has partnered with the Boathouse District to launch the race’s beneficiary, Course for Change. The program supports at-risk youth through a 12-week training program for the half marathon, providing a positive alternative and meaningful mentorship for these young individuals.

The Red Coyote team has not ignored the challenges still present with COVID-19. According to Burke, “we’ve been working diligently to ensure that our course, premiums, and race day experience guarantee participants an exciting union and opportunity to compete whether they are in-person or not.” Spectators are welcome at the event and will be encouraged to watch from Scissortail Park. The park offers plenty of space to social-distance and a great viewpoint as runners will pass through the park more than once.

With only 750 spots, participation will likely quickly sell out quickly. Registration costs $70 and increases to $80 on April 19th. If spots remain available the week of the race, the price will be $100.

Red Coyote is running an expo at their OKC location on May 7-8^th. Visit their store during their normal hours (10AM-7PM) to pick up packets, get special deals on nutrition, and purchase special edition apparel.

Race finishers receive a gorgeous race medal, a beach towel, and a pint glass in celebration of their efforts. A finishers celebration will be held on race day at Social Capital. Anyone who brings in their race bib will receive a free COOP beer.

For some runners, Red Coyote’s inaugural half marathon offers a timely opportunity to race in in advance of the Oklahoma City National Memorial Marathon on October 3, 2021. Once the half is over, Red Coyote’s marathon and half marathon training programs will kick off mid-June.

Make sure to stay up-to-date with Red Coyote’s races and programs through their social media platforms and website.