Ready, Set, Marathon

MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) - Over 3,000 runners from all over the US came out to run in the 15th annual Mankato Marathon.

“We could not ask for a more beautiful day. It is fantastic,” runner Chris Gordon said.

Runners started early Saturday morning, and some didn’t finish until the afternoon.

“We’ve got really enthusiastic runners and volunteers, and it’s just a lot of fun. This is one of my favorite times of the year,” GMG Sport and Special Event Director Joy Leafblad said.

Volunteers and organizers were monitoring runners throughout the courses to offer medical assistance, water and encouragement.

“It’s totally worth helping. It’s good energy. Again, I just can’t reiterate that enough. Good place to be, and it’s so good for the community,” bicyclist volunteer Dave Dempster said.

“I’ve done a lot of behind the scenes for this, and so it’s really cool to see it all come together,” GMG intern and volunteer Ana Caldwell said.

The first to finish were the 10K runners. The Full and Half marathon runners intermixed as they finished throughout the rest of the morning and afternoon.

“It’s great when you’re running along, there’s people all over cheering you on, other runners cheering you on. So that’s what makes it super fun,” runner Stevie Gransee said.

Everyone running does it for a different reason whether it be for health, fun or family.

“It’s always a treasure to have something to take along with your kids besides your last name, and I really hope they take running with them all their life,” Gordon said.

“I just like to run. I run every morning, and just being around other people who like to run, it really just pumps you up,” Gransee said.

For those that missed the Mankato Marathon this year or just like to get a head start, GMG said registration for the 2025 marathon will open soon.

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