The Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon and Day of Remembrance serve to honor and remember those killed, injured or affected by the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building on April 19, 1995.
The Day of Remembrance can be observed anywhere, but to understand the depth of the tragedy, guests can attend the Oklahoma City Memorial Museum on the anniversary for free. Alongside 168 seconds of observed silence for those killed and a reading of their names, guests can explore the interactive museum and the outdoor memorial.
The Memorial Marathon, which began in 2001, brings 24,000 runners to OKC.
“The start and finish lines of the Memorial Marathon are unlike any other race,” says Kari Watkins, executive director of the museum and race director. “Whether you are running, volunteering or cheering along the course, it’s a memory you’ll cherish.”
If you’re trepidatious, know you don’t have to be a seasoned marathoner. Options include a half marathon, a relay, a 5K and a kids’ marathon, all on April 29, beginning at the museum. The 26.2-mile race is also a Boston Marathon qualifier.
For information on the museum, visit oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org. For marathon details, visit okcmarathon.com.