Williams Route 66 Marathon returns to Tulsa

TUSLA, Okla. — Confetti filled the air when around 4,500 runners hit the streets of Tulsa for the 2022 Williams Route 66 Marathon.

The marathon’s executive director, Destiny Green, said a total of around 6,000 people participated in all of their events, including the marathon, 5k, and one-mile fun run.

“The Route 66 is part of the allure. And, we have the most amazing hospitality in Tulsa, and we’re a big party race. People like to come and just have fun and really enjoy our city,” she said.

A group of high school cross country runners from Enid ran in the half marathon.

“It was hard, pretty hilly, more than we’re used to, but it was fun. We all ran it together, so that made it fun,” said Malachi Hisey.

“Yeah, it was definitely very hilly, a lot of elevation gain. That was the tough part,” said Karsen Hennigh.

“Yeah, it’s a lot different from Enid where it’s really flat,” said Hayden Harmon.

Williams has been the corporate sponsor of the marathon since the beginning.

The CFO of Williams, John Porter, said the event has grown over the years and attracts thousands of races and spectators alike.

“This event has really taken off. We’ve got runners from all 50 states. We’ve got runners from 10 international countries. I think the estimated financial impact to the community is like eight million bucks every year,” he said.

The marathon also had a program called ‘Kicks for Kids’.

“Fundraising money that we make from the marathon goes back to help local title one schools. We give those kids a registration and a new pair of shoes and we delivered over 200 pairs this week,” said Green.

Organizers are hoping for an even bigger and better Route 66 Marathon next year.