TULSA, Okla. — The Williams Route 66 Marathon returns to Green Country this weekend for its 18th year.
Along with the usual runners, some of Tulsa's police officers and firefighters are going head-to-head in Sunday's marathon relay.
Roy Zoellner, an assistant fire marshal for the Tulsa Fire Department, said it all started with a simple phone call from officer J.P. Metcalf.
"A great guy, a great TPD officer," Zoellner said. "He gave a call-up and said, 'Hey, let's put a challenge together. Let's see if you firemen can keep up with us cops.' So, we got a team together, and I feel like we're gonna put on a pretty good challenge."
As for what's at stake in this friendly competition, Metcalf said they'll probably wager who buys lunch.
Zoeller is no stranger to the Route 66 Marathon and to races in general. He recently returned to Tulsa after competing in the New York City Marathon.
"They say that it was the... largest marathon ever," Zoellner said. "But the beauty of it is that New York is great, but I love my town, Tulsa, and I look forward to seeing everyone on the course."
"I know Roy, and he's a heck of a runner," said Metcalf. "I know I personally can't keep up with him. I'll do my best."
Friday kicks off the two-day Reasor's Health and Fitness Expo at the Cox Business Center, where runners can get their bibs and race packets. The expo is free and open to the public from 11 am to 7 pm on Friday and 9 am to 6 pm on Saturday.
Organizers said there's a lot for everyone to check out, like exhibitors featuring running gear and shoes, as well as sports and fitness and sustainability-related items.
There's a whole range of events happening this weekend.
"We'll have our marathon, half-marathon, marathon relay, 5k Fun Run, and Mascot Dash," said Destiny Green, the marathon's executive director. "So, we have something for all the people this weekend."
The 5k, Mascot Dash, and One-Mile Fun Run start Saturday at 8 am, 9 am, and 9:30 am, respectively. Sunday the full 26.2-mile marathon, the half-marathon, and the marathon relay all start at 8 am.
There are also several block parties along the route hosted by local businesses. For the full map of races and road closures: click here.
For a full breakdown, the marathon's organizers have provided a comprehensive guide to this weekend's activities.
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