More Than a Marathon
Oakland Marathon Panel Discussion: Community, Culture, and Inclusivity
When we set out to launch the Everyday Athlete Clubhouse Run Club Tour, we knew we needed to find the right city to kick things off. Oakland felt inevitable and not just because of the timing in March, but because of the genuine community connection that runs through this city’s veins. I had the privilege of hosting David Monico, the Director of Marketing for Run Localwhich puts on the Oakland Marathon, and Coach Bertrand Newson of Too Legit Fitness, a pillar of the Bay Area running community, for what became a deeply meaningful conversation about what makes this race so special.
A Conversation That Went Deeper
What struck me immediately was how David and Coach B didn’t just talk about putting on a race. They talked about building a movement. When I registered for the Oakland Marathon, I was genuinely moved by the registration form itself. The gender options included male, female, and non-binary. Further down, there was a dropdown for physically challenged and disabled athletes. These weren’t afterthoughts; they were intentional design choices that communicated something powerful: this race is truly for everyone.
I decided to push David on this. Why say “a race for everyone” and then actually prove it? His answer revealed the DNA of Run Local’s approach. They listen. When corporate groups reached out years ago saying their employees didn’t feel represented, David listened. When visually impaired runners wanted to participate in their Santa Barbara event, they listened and adapted. When I connected David with Karen Prewitt, whose son Caleb has Down syndrome, and Allison O’Reilly, a visually impaired athlete, within 24 hours they were exchanging emails about how to make the Oakland Marathon better for these communities. There statement isn’t just a marketing slog, it’s a commitment.
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Oakland Culture, Not a Gimmick
Coach B brought a different but equally important perspective. As someone who’s been part of the Oakland running community for years, he shared how the marathon has evolved into something that feels homegrown. The volunteers are from Oakland. The vendors represent the Bay Area. The medals and shirts are designed by locals. The gospel choirs and DJs on course aren’t gimmicks but rather they’re authentic expressions of Oakland’s culture. When I asked him to describe Oakland in three words, he said: rich, captivating, and compelling. That’s exactly what the marathon has become.
What moved me most was when I acknowledged the love and authenticity they’re pouring into this event. David got emotional. Coach B spoke about community, inclusivity and connection as healing forces in a fractured world. This isn’t just any race; wtat they are creating is a space where thousands of people can come together and feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
We discussed the practical elements too such as the challenging hills, the nutrition and hydration strategy, the vibrant food scene that’s made Oakland a top culinary destination. But underneath all of it was this thread of genuine care for the athlete experience and the community impact.
March 21–22, 2026 Can’t Come Soon Enough
As we wrapped up, I felt energized about what’s coming on March 21-22, 2026. This isn’t just another marathon on our tour. It’s a connection to what we are building. The weekend is something that honors a city’s culture while creating space for every body at the starting line. That’s the Oakland Marathon difference.
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