Joplin marathon attracts runners from far and wide

The inaugural Mother Road Marathon that’s set to run from Commerce, Okla., to Joplin, Mo., on Oct. 10 has already attracted 1,000 entrants from 34 states, according to the Joplin Globe.

The event includes the full 26.2-mile marathon, a half-marathon, and a fun run.

To attract that many runners with weeks to go before a first-ever race is impressive. Organizers attributed the race’s drawing power to it being run through three states — Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri — and because it’s on old Route 66.

UPDATE: Here’s a story about the marathon from KOAM-TV.

UPDATE2: The Joplin Independent posted a good overview of the upcoming race. This excerpt is worth mentioning:

Initially, Reinke said organizers had been planning for 500 entrants, now with all the enthusiasm expressed for the event, he thinks that 1500 would be a better estimate.

“We get 20% to register the last week,” Reinke said. “So, do the figures.”

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