A True Marathon Experience
The BMO Harris Bank Mesa-Phx Marathon benefits community wellness through the sponsoring of The Mesa-Phx Marathon Foundation, while also giving runners an opportunity to stretch themselves and their goals with a marathon course that is a fast, fun, Boston qualifier!
The marathon began as an idea of long time runners in the hills and mountains just east of the Phoenix Valley. The race founders knew that many friends shared the idea that runners wanted to have a race which focused on a giving the participant the best experience possible. Race founders Brad and Kimberly Arnett are committed to education and wanted a way for the running participant to help educate runners of all ages. They believed that runners would be as passionate about education as they were about running. The elite runners believed it was critical for the marathon course to have an overall net decrease in elevation, and, of course, be a Boston qualifier.
The Phoenix Marathon Foundation, provides scholarship funds for high school students who have participated in running related athletics who are dedicated to the pursuit of higher education. Scholarships will be provided to students through donations presented to the Phoenix Marathon Foundation by individuals, businesses, and corporations who share our belief that education truly is the key to success in life.
Every year many exceptional athletes earn running scholarships, but sometimes the difference between a deserving student and a school sponsored scholarship winner is just seconds. The Phoenix Marathon Foundation seeks to award those exceptional students who’ve put in the miles of dedication both academically and on the track, trails, and roads.
White Water sponsored an aid station with a little over 40 volunteers the Mesa-Phx Marathon. We donated over 7000 gallons of water for the runners and participants, and our house band, Black Canyon Thomas.
Chris, the owner of White Water, and his family all participated in the race. Chris and his son Jack are running the ½ marathon, Katie is running the full, and their daughter Kennedy is running the 10K. Check out some of the images below from the event!
