The Bismarck Marathon started 2023 strong, with a record number of runners across North America registering for the race in just the first week of the year.

A total of 95 runners signed up for a race from 17 different states and two different countries (U.S. and Canada). Runners registered for the Full Marathon, presented by MDU Resources Group Inc., the Half Marathon, presented by Touchstone Energy Power Cooperative, and the Marathon Relay, presented by Dakota Community Bank & Trust.

The previous record for the first week of January was set one year ago in 2022, which led to record-breaking attendance at the event in September. The 2022 Bismarck Marathon weekend was held September 15-17, 2022.

“The Bismarck Marathon is a community event and as more and more runners sign up, the better we will be able to promote youth health and wellness throughout Bismarck and Mandan,” co-race director Josh Askvig said. “Runners’ early support this year reflects their shared commitment to our mission.”

The 17 different states and two different countries are also a new record for the Bismarck Marathon, gaining national attention. The race has reached nearly half the number of states and countries represented in 2022 in just the first week. Runners from 42 states plus three countries: Canada, Guatemala, and Norway ran in 2022.

With runners from many of the 50 states flocking to Bismarck in September, the Bismarck Marathon provides the community with a boost to local tourism as participants enjoy the views of the Missouri River along the route. Additionally, the race is attracted to national runners because the course is USATF-certified, meaning runners can qualify for the Boston and/or NYC Marathon.

As a 501(c)3 organization, the Bismarck Marathon gives back to local charities, specifically charities that benefit youth, health, and wellness, we give back every year. Since 2007, the race has given over $300,000.

The 2023 race weekend will be the 42nd for North Dakota’s longest-running marathon and will be held September 14-16. Registration will reopen on April 1.

About The Bismarck Marathon

The Bismarck Marathon is North Dakota’s longest-running marathon in Bismarck, North Dakota on September 14-16, 2023. The event features a full marathon, half marathon, relay, 10k, 5k, and free community day with races for the kids and more. The race attracts runners from across the region and has become a highlight of the local running community.