11,000 runners from across the nation and world took part in the state’s largest marathon on the 114th anniversary of its statehood
MESA, Ariz. – Over 11,000 people celebrated Arizona’s 114th birthday on Feb. 14 by running the Mesa Marathon, which marked a new attendance record for the largest marathon in the state of Arizona. The Mesa Marathon sold out registrations in all four distances: the marathon, half marathon, 10K and the free Kids 1K run. The marathon course was recently recognized as the best marathon in Arizona by Race Rave’s “Best Marathons in the U.S.” poll for 2025, which highlights the top marathons in every U.S. state chosen by runners.
Among the record-sized crowd were speedy runners who topped the podiums. The Mesa Marathon awarded cash prizes to top men and women finishers in both the marathon and half marathon. JJ Santana, the men’s marathon champion and overall first-place finisher, completed the 26.2 miles in 2:19:09. He was followed by Marcos Gonzalez and Dominic Kiralyfi in second and third place. The women’s marathon course was led by Tiaree Towler, who finished in 2:38:54. Melanie DesAutels took second place and Rahcel Keele took third place in the women’s division.
The men’s half marathon division was led by Rory Linkletter, who finished with a time of 1:02:14, while Lauren Gregory led the women’s division with a time of 1:10:39. Dillon Maggard took second place and Peter Borger took third place in the men’s division; Annamaria Kostarellis took second place and Katja Goldring took third place in the women’s division.
Strong performances showcased in the 10K race included Tsegay Weldlibanos claiming the men’s title in a time of 28:54, and Jessica McClain in the women’s field, finishing in 31:12.
“Running is more popular than ever, and it’s evident in just how many events reach sell-out status,” said Phil Dumontet, CEO of Brooksee, producer of the Mesa Marathon. “With the record demand, it’s so important for organizers and communities to offer the highest quality experiences that will keep runners coming back for years to come. We are so proud of our partnership with the City of Mesa, and our shared commitment to making the Mesa Marathon a can’t-miss running event that inspires our participants to keep chasing their goals.”
1800 runners were awarded the first-ever Desert Double Medal. This special additional swag item rewarded those runners who participated in both the inaugural Phoenix Marathon, which took place Dec. 13, 2025, and the 2026 Mesa Marathon.
The highly-rated marathon course began below the large white Phoenix sign painted on Usery Mountain. Marathon runners experienced nearly 1,000 feet of net elevation loss while enjoying the diverse scenery from cactus desert to spectacular views of the Phoenix Valley from N. Usery Pass Rd. Half marathoners experienced nearly 200 feet of net elevation loss along the gentle downhill route towards Riverview Park, while 10K participants experienced a scenic course that begins at Fitch Park and winds through historic downtown Mesa. The Kids 1K run, a free, non-timed race for children 12 and under, had 700 participants this year.
For more information about the Mesa Marathon, visit www.mesamarathon.com and follow the event on Facebook and Instagram.
ABOUT MESA MARATHON AND BROOKSEE
The Mesa Marathon is the premier race in Arizona offering a marathon (26.2 miles), half marathon (13.1 miles), 10K and Kids 1K. Runners receive the race experience and perks of a major marathon as well as the personalized service and local flavor of their favorite hometown race. Race day is all about the runner, from industry-leading shirts and medals to unmatched course support and the best finish experience to be found. The Mesa Marathon is owned and produced by Brooksee, an endurance event production and services company committed to elevating the event experience for endurance athletes. Brooksee was founded in 2012 and was created in the vision of an all-in-one event production powerhouse where technological innovation and endurance events collide. Brooksee produces a portfolio of premier road races, including the Las Vegas Marathon, Portland Marathon, Phoenix Marathon, Mesa Marathon and the REVEL Race Series. Brooksee’s world-class portfolio of events recently earned 4 out of the top 10 spots on FindMyMarathon.com‘s independent ranking of the 50 Best Boston Marathon Qualifying Races for 2025, including #1, #2, #5 and #6. For more information, visit www.brooksee.com.