Every runner brings a story to the start line. From national champions to lifelong friends sharing the course, the Edmonton Marathon is shaped by the moments, memories and meaning behind every finish.
PARTICIPANT STORIES
Pushing Toward A Shared Dream
Debra Kasowski & Larry Adams
5K | 2025
For Debra Kasowski, the Edmonton Marathon had always been about showing up year after year. This time, however, race day carried an even deeper meaning.
Debra ran the 5K alongside her close friend Larry Adams, pushing him in his wheelchair so he could experience every part of the race. Larry, 86, lives with cerebral palsy and had once been told he would not live past the age of 25. Decades later, he proved those expectations wrong by taking part in one of Edmonton’s most celebrated race days.
For Larry, the 5K was more than a distance. It was the fulfillment of a long-held dream to be part of the Edmonton Marathon atmosphere, including the crowds, the cheers and the moment of crossing the finish line. For Debra, it was a chance to share the event she loved with a friend and help make that dream a reality.
Together, Debra and Larry’s run served as a powerful reminder that the Edmonton Marathon is for everyone.
WATCH: Edmonton man with cerebral palsy set to race in marathon with help from a friend (CityNews)
WATCH: Record-high attendance for Servus Edmonton Marathon (CityNews)
A Run For Her Father
Marlee Hutchings
Healthcare Solutions Half Marathon | 2025
When Marlee Hutchings took to the course on August 17, every kilometre carried deep personal significance.
Marlee ran the Healthcare Solutions Half Marathon exactly 21 years to the day after her father, David Hutchings, passed away from cancer. As she moved through the course, each kilometre represented one year since his passing, transforming her run into a living tribute to his life.
Inspired by her father’s kindness, active lifestyle and commitment to community, Marlee also used her race to raise funds for the Alberta Cancer Foundation in his name. Through her efforts, she helped support others facing cancer and offered hope to families navigating similar journeys.
Surrounded by the encouragement of fellow runners, volunteers and spectators, Marlee’s run reflected the heart of the Edmonton Marathon, where personal stories, community support and resilience come together, one step at a time.
WATCH: Woman marks 21 years since father’s death as Edmonton Marathon breaks several records (Global Edmonton)
A Familiar Finish Line
Kip Kangogo
Men’s Marathon Winner | 2025
Kip Kangogo claimed victory at the Edmonton Marathon for the second time, winning the men’s marathon in a time of 2:29:16. The Lethbridge runner previously won the event in 2022, adding another Edmonton title to his resume.
Following his win, Kangogo reflected on his long-standing connection to the race and the province. “The Edmonton Marathon has been a good friend and I’ve been coming here many years,” he said. “Alberta is home. It’s always good to win at home.”
His repeat victory highlighted both consistency and experience, as Kangogo once again proved himself in front of a familiar community.
A Win She Didn't Expect
Kristen Spady
Women’s Marathon Winner | 2025
Kristen Spady of Red Deer captured the women’s marathon title with a winning time of 2:53:25, a result she described as a surprise.
“It was very unexpected to win,” Spady said.
For Spady, running was both competition and personal time. As a mother of four boys, she found motivation throughout the race from messages of encouragement sent by her family.
“Running is my quiet time,” she said. “I have four boys at home and they were texting me, giving me encouragement along the way.”
Her victory was a testament to balance, resilience and determination.
WATCH: Red Deer woman wins Edmonton Marathon (Red Deer News Now)
A Sprint To The National Title
Rory Linkletter
Health Care Solutions Half Marathon Winner & Canadian Half Marathon Champion | 2025
Rory Linkletter delivered a thrilling performance at the Health Care Solutions Half Marathon, winning both the race and the Canadian Half Marathon Championship title.
Originally from Calgary, Linkletter secured the victory in a dramatic sprint finish, crossing the line just one second ahead of Cameron Levins.
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“It was a showdown because Cam is a super tough guy to beat,” Linkletter said. “Doing it in Alberta was pretty special.”
The narrow win capped off one of the most exciting finishes of the day and showcased elite Canadian distance running on home soil.
WATCH: Rory Linkletter wins Canadian Half-Marathon Championships in sprint finish (Canadian Running)