Oklahoma Children’s OU Health Steps Forward to Power the OKC Memorial Marathon Kids Race

This spring, thousands of small steps will add up to something powerful.

The Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon announced Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, that Oklahoma Children’s OU Health will be the new sponsor of the Kids Marathon, marking the first year of this partnership. The announcement took place under the Survivor Tree at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, a symbol of resilience, remembrance and hope.

The Memorial Marathon was created after the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing to honor those who were killed, those who survived, and those changed forever, and to celebrate life. The Kids Marathon has been an important part of that mission, encouraging children to embrace health and physical activity while learning values of perseverance, community engagement, and the Oklahoma Standard. With Oklahoma Children’s OU Health’s sponsorship, the event gains a dedicated partner focused on promoting the health and well-being of Oklahoma’s children, families and schools.

“We are thrilled to have Oklahoma Children’s OU Health’s commitment to the Kids Marathon,” said Kari Watkins, President and CEO of the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum and Race Director for the Memorial Marathon. “OU Health has proven to be a great founding partner and we are grateful to have Oklahoma Children’s step up in this way and focus on creating healthy lives for Oklahoma’s kids.”

Kids Marathon Ambassadors: Stories of Courage and Possibility

As part of the sponsorship, children who are patients of Oklahoma Children’s OU Health will participate as Kids Marathon Ambassadors. These children will share their journey preparing for the race, inspiring others and demonstrating resilience through their medical experiences.

Laney Culpepper, 11, is a kidney transplant recipient whose courage and joy inspire all of us. After facing a rare genetic kidney disease and years of dialysis, Laney received a life-saving transplant and is now thriving — proof of what expert care, family love and determination can do. Read Laney’s story

Ross Helms, 10, was born prematurely with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia and needed complex surgery and specialized care at Oklahoma Children’s OU Health to survive and grow. Today, he is growing stronger and reminds us what is possible when skill, support and perseverance come together. Read Ross’ story

Additional Kids Marathon Ambassadors will be announced and profiled in the leadup to race day. -up to race day.

“OU Health is proud to sponsor the Oklahoma City Memorial Kids Marathon," said Jonathan Curtright, MBA, MHA, OU Health Chief Operating Officer. “This event reflects the Oklahoma Standard in action — honoring the past, investing in the next generation, and showing our kids they are supported every step of the way. As the state’s flagship academic health system, OU Health is committed to being a partner in our community and lifting the health of Oklahomans. One step, one mile, one child at a time, we are helping build a healthier future across all 77 counties and beyond."

As a comprehensive pediatric health system, Oklahoma Children’s OU Health provides research-driven, multidisciplinary care, educates future health care leaders and builds statewide partnerships to ensure children across all 77 counties have access to top-tier care. Sponsoring the Kids Marathon reflects the organization’s commitment to encouraging healthy habits early and supporting children who demonstrate grit and courage every day.

“As a pediatrician, I see every day how early experiences shape lifelong health,” said Dr. Michael Steiner, M.D., MPH, Chair of Department of Pediatrics at University of Oklahoma College of Medicine and Chief of Pediatric Services at OU Health. “Events like the Kids Marathon encourage movement, build confidence and show children that their community believes in them. This event isn’t just about crossing a finish line, it’s about teaching kids that challenges can be met and overcome. Together, as caregivers, families, educators and community partners, we help children grow stronger, feel supported and discover what’s possible.”

A Shared Mission of Remembrance and Healing

This partnership also reflects a meaningful connection between the Memorial’s mission and OU Health’s commitment to serving Oklahoma through moments of crisis and long-term healing. One example is Dr. Madison Naylor, M.D., a pediatrician at Oklahoma Children’s OU Health and a survivor of the Oklahoma City bombing. Dr. Naylor was an infant in the YMCA daycare near the Murrah Federal Building on April 19, 1995; today, she cares for children and families in the same community that once cared for her. Her story underscores how remembrance, service and compassion can carry forward across generations. Watch Dr. Naylor’s story

In addition to the Kids Marathon sponsorship, OU Health is the co-presenting sponsor for the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon Health & Fitness Expo, which offers families education, preventive resources and opportunities to engage with the community.

The 2026 Kids Marathon invites students, families and community members to walk, run or cheer, reinforcing the Marathon’s mission of remembrance, community and hope. Schools and families are encouraged to register and join the celebration.

For more information about the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon Kids Marathon and to register, visit okcmarathon.com/kids