ABOUT THIS RACE:
Race Starting Location:
Crown Center, Kansas City, MO
The Kansas City Marathon is a Running race in Kansas City, Missouri consisting of a Marathon Relay.
The Kansas City Marathon is managed by the Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation, a 100% privately funded nonprofit.
The Kansas City Marathon had its debut in 1979 as the Macyas Marathon. In 1984, the event changed names and was officially branded the Kansas City Marathon. The Kansas City Track Club was an important organizer of the event and without this committed organization, the event would not have taken place for the next 20 years. In 1986, the Kansas City Marathon secured a 10-year agreement with Prime Health as the title sponsor. With the addition of a title sponsor, the course started and finished at Swope Park. In 1987, the event was moved from November to October. In the 1990s, the course was adjusted again due to the number of churches on the route. Due to Sunday morning church services, the race was changed from a Sunday to a Saturday.
In 1991, the course was adjusted again to showcase the community and incorporate a abettera view of the Greater Kansas City community. It went across the state line into Kansas.
In 1995, the search for a new title sponsor ensued. Kansas City Power & Light was secured. In 1996, the Kansas City Marathon touted itself as the first GREEN marathon.
In 2004, the Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation (KCSCF) was brought to the team to assist with marketing and sponsorship. In 2005, KCSCF secured Waddell & Reed as a title sponsor. At this time, it was officially owned and operated by KCSCF. In 2005, the event drew 3,105 participants. In 2013, the event had the most registered participants ever with 12,019.
By promoting Kansas City sports locally and nationally, and by working behind the scenes to attract, retain and facilitate sports events and organizations here, the Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation is helping our bi-state region realize the economic, social and community-building benefits of sports. As a privately-funded non-profit, we are entirely dependent on your support.
The Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation sponsors more than 25 annual events including youth clinics, annual community and membership luncheons and community-sponsored athletic events.