Finals Preparations Underway For Route 66 Marathon

Roads are blocked off downtown for the Williams Route 66 Marathon this weekend.

Events kick off Friday, but organizers are putting together last-minute preparations.

This is the first time in two years the race is back in person, bringing thousands of runners from around the country to Tulsa.

After going virtual last year, organizers say the Williams Route 66 Marathon is drawing about 7,000 athletes this year.

Executive Director Destiny Green says on average, the race brings in more than $8 million to the city.

She says to expect places like hotels, restaurants, and museums to be packed.

There are more than 10 official block parties along the route and pop-ups along the way.

A Health and Fitness Expo will be going on Friday and Saturday at the OSU Tulsa campus. The 5K, Fun Run, and Mascot Dash are all happening Saturday morning. The Half-Marathon, Full Marathon, and Marathon Relay are on Sunday.

Green says this marathon is a big reunion race for several running groups. 

"We love having our runners back in Tulsa. We have quite a draw for runners. People all across the country talk about our race and how incredible it is and how welcoming Oklahomans are,” Green said.

Several roads will be closed throughout town this weekend, but the main day will be on Sunday for the half and full marathon. 

You can find a full list of road closures here.