August Course Connection 2026
Posted on Aug 26, 2026, by Nieko Giuliani
A Special Message from Kathrine Switzer
For 35 years, the Fox Cities Marathon has celebrated the determination, courage, and fearless spirit that make running so much more than a race.
We’re honored to share a special message from a true pioneer of the sport, Kathrine Switzer, whose trailblazing journey continues to inspire runners around the world.
Take a moment to hear her message to our Fox Cities Marathon community—and remember, being fearless starts with taking that first step.
#261Fearless
@kathrineswitzer
FULL MARATHON NEARING CAPACITY!
The excitement is building, and so are registrations! Our Full Marathon is nearing capacity, so if running 26.2 miles through the beautiful Fox Cities is on your bucket list this year, now is the time to secure your spot.
There’s even more reason to register today—prices increase September 1 for the 5K, 10K, Half, Full and Relay Marathon events. Whatever distance you’re planning to tackle, registering now locks in the best available price.
Join thousands of participants as we celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the Community First Fox Cities Marathon presented by Miron Construction this September!
Register today before the September 1 price increase.
Looking to Switcharoo?
Plans changed? No worries!
If you need to switch to a different event or transfer your bib to another participant, you can do so through Thursday, September 17 at 11:59 p.m.
You’ll find instructions and answers to many other questions in our website FAQs.
A $15 transfer/change fee applies to all event changes and bib transfers.
Gatorade Endurance: RACE DAY FUELING
Not every run needs full race-day fueling—but some should.
Pick a few key long runs to:
- Use the same fueling timing, amounts, and products you plan to race with
- Practice sipping fluids and taking carbs at race-like intervals
- Fine-tune what works best for you
It may help support a smoother race experience, the more familiar your body is with race-day fueling.
From the Official Hydration Partner of the Community First Fox Cities Marathon, Gatorade Endurance Formula is designed for the specific needs of endurance athletes and will be available on course at every water station.
To order Gatorade Endurance Formula for your training, and to learn more about all Gatorade products, visit Gatorade.com.
Legacy Runner Club
It began in 1991 with the very first Fox Cities Marathon. No one was thinking about legacies—they were simply showing up, lacing up, and having fun.
But year after year, mile after mile, something remarkable happened.
A small group of dedicated runners never missed the start line. Through changing seasons, life milestones, and decades of memories, they kept coming back. Today, they are known as Legacy Runners—a living connection to the heart and history of the race.
MEET LEGACY RUNNER: Basil Hansen
The Heart of a Legacy
Basil Hansen Endures to Succeed in the Long Run
Basil Hansen didn’t start running until his senior year of high school, but he hasn’t stopped since. Growing up on a family farm near Waupaca, there was little time for extracurriculars until his mother gave him the green light to try a sport.
MEET LEGACY RUNNER: Forest Pearson
Legacy Runner Driven by Passion and People
Forrest Pearson didn’t plan on running the inaugural Community First Fox Cities Marathon in 1991. Visiting relatives in Appleton after running the Twin Cities Marathon the weekend prior, a chance encounter with a friend the night before changed his plans. Forrest walked into the registration pavilion just 20 minutes before the start, wrote a check, and sprinted to the starting line.
Legacy Runner Club
It began in 1991 with the very first Fox Cities Marathon. No one was thinking about legacies—they were simply showing up, lacing up, and having fun.
But year after year, mile after mile, something remarkable happened.
A small group of dedicated runners never missed the start line. Through changing seasons, life milestones, and decades of memories, they kept coming back. Today, they are known as Legacy Runners—a living connection to the heart and history of the race.
Community Involvement
When you see our high school cross country teams on race weekend, be sure to give them a cheer! These dedicated student-athletes help make the Community First Fox Cities Marathon possible while earning donations to support their own cross country programs.
A big thank you to this year’s participating teams:
- Appleton East High School
- Appleton North High School
- Appleton West High School
- Fox Valley Lutheran High School
- Kaukauna High School
- Kimberly High School
- Little Chute High School
- Menasha High School
- St. Mary’s Central High School
- Xavier High School
Their enthusiasm, hard work, and community spirit help create an unforgettable race weekend for every participant. Thank you for investing in the future of running!
Race Weekend: Need to Know
FREE Gear Check
Leave the extra items behind with confidence. Complimentary Gear Check is available for all Saturday and Sunday events. Simply check your bag before your race, and it will be waiting for you near the Finish Line when you cross.
Saturday 5K/10K Start Line Update
We heard what participants wanted and we’re excited to welcome you to a wider start line for the 5K and 10K. We’ve moved the start line from inside the park to N. Park Avenue along the east side. This change provides more space for participants, creating a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable start for everyone.
Sunday Course Split Reminder
Full and Half Marathon participants should be prepared for the course split at S. Telulah Ave. in Appleton. Half Marathon participants will turn left onto Telulah Ave. from Midway Road, while Full Marathon participants will continue straight on Midway Road. Familiarize yourself with the course in advance and watch for directional signs and volunteers on race day.
A little planning now means more confidence on race day.
We can’t wait to see you at the start line!
EVENT SPOTLIGHT: Kids Fun Run and Diaper Dash & Toddler Trot
One of the most heartwarming traditions of race weekend is watching our youngest participants cross the finish line! Kick off the 35th Anniversary celebration with the Guardian Kids Fun Run and Huggies® Diaper Dash & Toddler Trot on Friday, September 18, from 4:00–7:30 p.m. at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium.
Bring the whole family for an evening of smiles, games, food, and unforgettable finish-line moments. Whether your little one is crawling, toddling, or running, it’s the perfect way to celebrate race weekend and create memories that will last a lifetime. Every child is a champion!
Sponsor Spotlight: Guardian
Guardian believes wellness goes beyond financial confidence—it includes supporting healthy, active lifestyles for every generation. Thanks to Guardian’s continued partnership, hundreds of kids get to experience the excitement of race weekend in a fun, encouraging environment where participation is the greatest achievement. Every young runner crosses the finish line with a smile and a medal, creating memories that can inspire a lifetime of healthy habits.
Sponsor Spotlight: Huggies
We got you, baby™ isn’t just a slogan—it’s a commitment. Huggies® continues to make race weekend extra special by sponsoring the Diaper Dash & Toddler Trot, giving our littlest participants their own moment to shine. Whether they’re crawling toward the finish or toddling through the course, Huggies® helps families create joyful memories while supporting our shared commitment to health, wellness, and community—one crawl, one step, and one giggle at a time.
Send a Shout Out – Be the Inspiration
Every participant has a moment when they need a little extra motivation. That’s where you come in!
Record a personalized video message for your favorite participant, and we’ll play it on the McCarty Law Shout Out Board during the Full, Half and Relay Marathon events.
Whether it’s words of encouragement, a good luck wish, or a heartfelt message from the family dog, your support can provide the boost they need when the miles get tough.
Take a few minutes to make a big impact. Your Shout Out could be the smile that carries someone all the way to the finish line.
Record a message or share the link below with your biggest fans – so they can give you a message on race day!
Train Smart. Race with Confidence. Finish Proud.
Race weekend is almost here, and now is the perfect time to fine-tune your pace and build confidence before you toe the starting line. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply looking for a steady, enjoyable race, our training partners are here to help.
PaceSetters of the Fox Cities
Join free Full and Half Marathon training runs every Saturday morning. Runs begin at 7:00 a.m. from Telulah Park in Appleton and are a great way to experience supported long runs with fellow participants. View Training Run Maps.
Fleet Feet Fox Valley
Getting ready for the 5K or 10K? Fleet Feet’s group training runs are a great way to prepare with expert guidance and a supportive community. Runs take place August 27, September 3, and September 10 at Riverside Park in Neenah from 5:30–8:00 p.m. Registration is required. Learn More.
Then On Race Day, Keep the Pace!
Your race-day goals are within reach with our official pacers from On Pace Race to provide encouragement, motivation, and consistent pacing to help you finish strong. Race weekend, stop by the Nutritional Healing Health & Wellness Expo to learn more, ask questions, and find the pace group that’s right for you.
The Race Where Everyone Knows Your Name!
There’s nothing quite like hearing the crowd cheer your name as you make your way through the Fox Cities!
Register by August 24 to have your first name printed on your race bib, giving spectators and volunteers one more way to encourage you from start to finish.
When the miles get tough, hearing “You’ve got this, Sarah!” or “Way to go, Mike!” can make all the difference. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy the most personal race-day experience possible!
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