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ABOUT THE GARMIN OLATHE MARATHON – GARMIN OLATHE MARATHON

PRESENTED BY:

Team Beef Cutout

HISTORY OF THE
GARMIN OLATHE MARATHON

The Garmin Olathe Marathon in the Land of Oz boasts a rich history that traces back to its inception in 2002. Initially, it served as the marathon course for the NAIA Outdoor Track and Field National Championships. The following year, in 2003, the NAIA opened the course to the public, allowing runners to participate 30 minutes behind the student-athletes. This marked the official beginning of the Olathe Marathon, attracting 183 enthusiastic participants.

In 2004, the marathon started at the Olathe District Activity Center and concluded at the Great Mall of the Great Plains, setting the stage for future events. From 2005 to 2008, the race began at Gardner-Edgerton High School and finished in downtown Olathe, providing runners with a scenic and challenging route. A significant change occurred in 2009 when the marathon started and finished at Garmin Headquarters in Olathe, establishing a strong connection with the local community and the company.

A transformative moment in the marathon’s history came in 2011 when the Wizard of Oz theme was introduced, rebranding the race as the Oz Marathon. This change significantly increased its popularity, drawing over 1,800 participants. In 2012, Garmin elevated its sponsorship to become the title sponsor, and the event was renamed the Garmin Marathon, while still embracing the beloved Wizard of Oz theme.

By 2014, the Garmin Marathon became part of the Heartland Series Half Marathons, boosting registration to nearly 4,000 runners. In 2016, the race found a new home for its start and finish line at the newly built Embassy Suites Hotel & Olathe Conference Center, hosting more than 3,700 runners from five countries and 44 states. The following year saw participation soar to over 4,100 runners from 43 states and 10 countries.

In 2018, the Garmin Marathon returned to Garmin World Headquarters for its 16th annual event, welcoming over 4,300 participants from all 50 states and 10 countries. The marathon continued to grow, featuring a Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, Family Run, and Virtual Race, solidifying its reputation as a premier running event in Kansas.

PREVIOUS CHARACTERS

Every year, the Garmin Olathe Marathon in the Land of Oz introduces a new character as the race’s theme, adding a unique and exciting twist to the event. In previous years, runners have enjoyed themes centered around beloved characters such as Dorothy, the Flying Monkeys, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Lion. Last year’s theme featured the Good Witch, captivating participants and spectators alike. This year’s theme has yet to be announced, so stay tuned for the exciting reveal!

2018
Dorothy

2019
Scarecrow

2020
Lion

2021
Tin Man

2022
Wicked Witch

2023
Flying Monkey

2024
Good Witch

2025
The Wizard

GARMIN OLATHE MARATHON TODAY

As of 2024, the Garmin Olathe Marathon in the Land of Oz continues to thrive and expand, reaching a record-breaking participant count with over 3,000 runners. This esteemed marathon is a Boston qualifier, attracting competitive runners from across the nation. Race weekend features four exciting events: the Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and Kids Marathon, catering to all ages and fitness levels. The festivities kick off with the Health & Fitness Expo, which begins on Thursday for packet pick-up and extends through Saturday. Open to all, the Expo showcases dozens of vendors offering the latest in running gear and apparel, making it a must-visit event for participants and running enthusiasts alike.

THE GARMIN OLATHE MARATHON IN THE LAND OF OZ
IS MANAGED AND ORGANIZED BY THE:

Olathe Convention and Visitors Bureau Logo
A Department of Olathe Chamber of Commerce

260 E. Santa Fe St., Suite 101
Olathe, Kansas 66061

Email us at: Marathon@Olathe.org

Garmin Olathe Marathon is managed and organized by:

The Olathe Chamber of Commerce Convention & Visitors Bureau

260 E. Santa Fe St., Suite 101 Olathe, Kan. 66061

Contact us:

marathon@olathe.org

Phone: Please email


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