Participants in the 22nd Garmin Olathe Marathon enjoyed ideal running conditions on a pleasantly cool Saturday.
Around 3,000 participants had registered for the marathon, half marathon, or 10K races, according to event organizers. This year, runners from 39 different states were represented in the group. The starting and finishing point was at Garmin’s headquarters.
Tim McKee, CEO of the Olathe Chamber of Commerce, has been involved with the marathon since its inception. He emphasizes the profound influence it has on the local community.
According to McKee, the race has experienced consistent growth over the years. It attracts participants from all corners of the country, resulting in fully booked hotels for nearly a week. As a result, the event holds significant importance for the local community.
Peter Roorh, a passionate runner hailing from Maryland, recently completed his first Garmin Olathe marathon. With a goal of running marathons in as many states as possible, Peter eagerly anticipated conquering the challenging 26.2-mile distance and exploring the beautiful city of Olathe.
“I’ve had the opportunity to explore around nine or 10 states already, and I’m determined to immerse myself in as many as possible before my running days come to an end,” expressed Roorh.
In addition, the event featured a special activity tailored for the younger participants, known as the Munchkin Run. This engaging run was open to children from kindergarten through eighth grade, providing them with the opportunity to actively participate and enjoy the event. Furthermore, there was a designated Senior Walk, exclusively for individuals aged 55 and older. This walk allowed seniors to join in the festivities and engage in physical activity at their own pace.
