Our History
The Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon traces its roots back to 1980 with the launch of the Borgess Run for the Health of It. What began as a local effort to promote wellness through running has grown into a beloved community tradition. Over the decades, the event has evolved, but its heart remains the same: celebrating health, perseverance, and Kalamazoo spirit.
A Vision for Health
Conceived by John Daley, Borgess Development Director, as the "Run for the Health of It!" aimed at promoting health through exercise and rehabilitation.
First Race!
The inaugural Borgess Run for the Health of It! attracted approximately 800 runners.
A Comeback of the Heart
Former WMU president James Miller completed the one-mile “fun run” just six weeks after open-heart surgery. Nearly 2,000 participants joined him.
Olympic Champion Dominates in Kalamazoo
Boston Marathon champion and 1984 Olympic Women’s Marathon gold medalist Joan Benoit won the women’s 10K by a five-minute margin.
From England to Kalamazoo: An Olympian’s Win
England’s Olympian Nick Rose won the 10K in a swift 28:59, bringing international attention to the race.
Events Expand
The run grew to include a 5K walk and a 15K run—broadening its appeal.
Milestone for Growth
The Run/Walk attracted over 6,000 participants—marking a new era of scale.
First Ultimate Hoofer
Mark Smith earned the inaugural Ultimate Hoofer award after winning the 5K, 10K, and 15K.
Record-Shattering Run
WMU runner Kayla Skelly smashed the 15K record with an impressive 55:44 finish.
New Leadership
Blaine Lam became Race Director, setting the tone for excellence in participant, sponsor, volunteer, and community engagement.
A New Competition
Judged racewalk is born, 166 participate.
Honoring our Founder
The Borgess Run celebrated its 15th anniversary and dedicated the race to founder John Daley, who passed away earlier that month.
11 Titles in 12 Years
U.S. Olympian Gary Morgan set a Borgess racewalk record of 20:36. Morgan won the event 11 times in 12 years.
The Half-Marathon Is Born
Gazelle Sports co-owner Chris Crowell launched the National City Half-Marathon, expanding the race’s offerings.
A Quarter Century of Running
The event marked its 25th anniversary with a special celebration. The “Medical Mile” was reimagined as the “Motivational Mile,” inspiring participants with an uplifting new focus.
Kalamazoo Marathon Launches
The full Kalamazoo Marathon was introduced, and the festival of events moved to the first weekend in May.
Post-Race Celebration Expands
The post-race celebrations grew with live entertainment, food vendors, sponsor tents, photo boards, live TV commentary, and even a “Big Finish” beer for adults—making the race weekend a full community celebration.
10K Makes a Comeback
The 10K race was reintroduced to the event lineup.
Growing Participation
Combined fields across all events—Marathon, Half, 10K, 5K Run, 5K Walk, and Kids 1K—surpassed 5,500 participants. The PNC Military Mile was also added to honor veterans along the course.
40 Years Strong
The event celebrated four decades of community, health, and running spirit.
Virtual Pivot
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the race went fully virtual.
Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon
Rebranded as the Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon, the event successfully brought back the Half Marathon, 10K, 5K Run, 5K Walk, and 1K Kids Run—with plans for the full Marathon’s return in 2023.
The Marathon Returns - Big Time
The full Marathon returned with all events starting and ending downtown. New course layouts earned praise, and overall participation grew by 61% from 2022.
45 Years of Community and Creativity
In its 45th year, the Marathon Relay was introduced and became a community favorite. Participants enjoyed creative on-course stops like Waldo Stadium, Bacon Station, Gummy Bear Forest, Pickle Pit, and Donut Point.
Honoring our legacy
Our Legacy Videos honor the people who have shaped our race and community over the years. Through personal stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and reflections from volunteers, runners, and organizers, these videos celebrate the passion and perseverance that built the marathon into what it is today. It’s a tribute to the legacy-makers whose dedication continues to inspire the next generation of participants.
Legacy Videos
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Let the Adventure Begin.
Join the Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon for a fun and memorable marathon experience.