An Oklahoma tradition was back in person this year following a virtual pause during the height of the pandemic. The Oklahoma Memorial Marathon returned, but had some changes in 2021.
“The marathon was held virtually in 2020 and delayed in 2021 for the best case scenario for a safe and fun run, ” Tara Tramel-Light, a marathon volunteer, said.
The marathon is normally held in April each year, but was delayed due to COVID-19 concerns.
The Memorial Marathon has been a tradition for more than 20 years. It is special to many people, especially those impacted by the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building on April 19, 1995. The bombing killed 168 people and permanently changed the lives of many more.
Tramel-Light said the Memorial Marathon is a way to celebrate life, reach for the future and remember the lives taken on that tragic day.
“I love people, places, purposeful projects, so being a volunteer traveling the state and asking folks to support the marathon or be a participant was a no brainer,” Tramel-Light said.
She said she is an enthusiastic runner in addition to her volunteer work with her church choir. Between her volunteer work and her regular job teaching music Tramel-Light said she runs on “energy and Jesus.”
If you are interested in running or volunteering for the next Memorial Marathon you can visit their website for more information.
