Sioux Falls Marathon Drew Thousands of Runners

More than 2,000 athletes from across the country and Canada gathered for this year's race.

Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Running

Sioux Falls Marathon Drew Thousands of Runners

Live Poll

Would you participate in a local community marathon if you had the opportunity?

The 2026 Sioux Falls Marathon attracted over 2,000 participants to the city on September 20. Runners competed in marathon, half marathon, and 5K distances in an event that serves as a qualifier for the Boston Marathon.

Why it matters

The race attracts competitive runners looking to secure entry into the Boston Marathon. The annual gathering draws athletes from 46 states and Canada to test their endurance on the Sioux Falls course.

More than 2,000 runners registered for the race, representing 46 states and Canada. Sarah Nelson, who won the women's marathon division, has now competed in 16 different states.

The players

Sioux Falls Sports Authority

This organization is responsible for hosting and planning the annual Sioux Falls Marathon.

Sarah Nelson

She is the winner of the women's marathon division who is preparing to run in the Chicago Marathon.

The details

Hosted by the Sioux Falls Sports Authority, the marathon requires nearly year-round planning to organize. Participants had the choice of competing in the full marathon, half marathon, or 5K races during the event.

The 2026 Sioux Falls Marathon occurred on September 20, 2026.
Sarah Nelson competes in the Chicago Marathon in October 2026.

Cultural
Sept. 20
Sioux Falls Hosted Thirteenth Annual Riverfest
Football
Sept. 19
SF Lincoln Defeated Rapid City Central 58-14
Emergency Response
Sept. 19
Sioux Falls Fire Rescue Extinguished House Blaze

Season Trajectory

This race follows a pattern set by the Boston Marathon qualification standards to attract competitive runners. Its status as an official qualifier keeps the Sioux Falls event relevant within the broader regional racing calendar.

The event provides a critical qualifying opportunity for runners seeking entry into the Boston Marathon. Participants use their official finish times from this course to meet the specific requirements set by the Boston Athletic Association.

The takeaway

Qualifying races are essential for athletes aiming to participate in major marathons. Runners can improve their chances of success by choosing well-organized, certified courses like the one in Sioux Falls.