A record-setting field of 10,000 runners from across the globe is scheduled to compete in the 50th running of the St. George Marathon at 7 a.m. on October 3. The event is expected to showcase the natural terrain of the region while athletes test their endurance.
Michelle Graves, Assistant Director of Parks and Community Services for the City of St. George, stated that this year's race features an incredible prize purse and has attracted a variety of top-flight marathon runners. She noted that the event is a celebration 50 years in the making.
On the men's side, three runners are projected to challenge the course record of 2:13:56, which was set by Jake Heslington in 2025. These competitors include Michael Otteson of Provo, Eric Nelson of Nibley, and Travis Feeny of Cedar City. Female competitors projected to finish within the 2:29 to 2:33 range include Shannon Smith of Paonia, Colorado, Morgan Jensen of Sandy, and three-time winner Sylvia Bedford of South Jordan.
Festivities are scheduled to begin on October 2 with the St. George Marathon and Half Marathon Expo at the Dixie Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. This event allows participants to pick up race packets and visit vendors selling merchandise and official souvenirs.
Later on October 2, the St. George Marathon 5K and Fun Run will take place at Vernon Worthen Park. The Fun Run is scheduled for 5 p.m., followed by the Marathon 5K at 6 p.p. On the morning of the marathon, Mayor Jimmie Hughes will lead the 1-mile Mayor's Walk starting at 7 a.m. from the Washington County School District parking lot.
Established in 1977, the St. George Marathon is a point-to-point race that begins in the Pine Valley Mountains and descends nearly 2,600 feet. It is recognized by Runner’s World as one of four "Marathons to Build a Vacation Around" and is noted as one of the top 10 scenic and fastest marathons. The race is certified by USA Track & Field and is the 13th largest marathon in the United States.
The St. George Marathon is Utah's largest marathon and attracts over 7,000 runners to showcase the community and the beauty of Southern Utah.
