The BMW Dallas Marathon is poised for a significant turnout this year, with over 30,000 participants expected to take part in various events, including the highly anticipated half-marathon featuring Olympian Dakotah Popehn. This running boom, which has surged since the COVID-19 pandemic, highlights the growing popularity of distance running as more individuals seek fitness and community engagement.
Popehn, who represented the United States at the 2024 Paris Olympics, will compete in the half-marathon. She holds the distinction of having the 19th fastest marathon time recorded by an American woman, with a personal best of 2:24:20 achieved at the Chicago Marathon. Her participation adds star power to an event that has seen a remarkable increase in entries over the years. In comparison, the 2019 marathon saw only 15,000 runners, which increased to 26,000 in 2021, reflecting a growing trend toward long-distance running.
Rising Stars and Competitive Spirit
The presence of elite athletes like Popehn elevates the profile of the BMW Dallas Marathon, according to Jason Schuchard, president of the event. “Celebrity ambassadors always help elevate the event, but it’s something truly special when someone of caliber steps off the sidelines and into the race itself,” he said. Popehn, formerly known as Lindwurm before her marriage in 2024, is excited about her first visit to Dallas and plans to take in the sights while running the half-marathon.
While she may not be racing at her full capacity, her appearance is noteworthy, as previous ambassadors such as Meb Keflezighi and Deena Kastor did not compete in the race. Popehn expressed enthusiasm for experiencing the city, stating, “There’s no better tour than a 13-mile long run.”
Popehn also shared insights into her training methods and competitive mindset. She often contemplates what distance it would take to outperform male training partners specializing in shorter distances. “I feel like I could catch him in a 10k, but for sure a half-marathon, without a doubt. A 10k might be the perfect distance,” she remarked, referring to local standout Cooper Lutkenhaus.
Challenging Conditions and Mental Resilience
The half-marathon, added to the marathon weekend in 2003, has a course record of 1:11:32 set by Romanian runner Nuta Olaru in 2008. Given her personal record, Popehn is likely to challenge this mark. Her rise in the sport has captured attention, particularly after she secured third place at the U.S. Olympic Trials in February 2024, finishing in 2:26:44 and becoming the first North American to cross the finish line at the Paris Games.
Popehn attributes her success to consistency and injury management. “The single most important thing has been consistency and not having to take time off due to injury,” she noted. This philosophy serves as a motivational example for younger athletes who may feel disheartened after recent early signing days for college athletics.
She encourages aspiring runners to remain open to opportunities beyond Division I programs, suggesting that hard work and dedication can lead to success at any level. “If you’re willing to work hard, you can find a way to stand out at any level,” she said.
Popehn’s background also illustrates resilience, as she trained in harsh winter conditions in Minnesota, far removed from the ideal running environments many of her peers experienced. Her performance at the Paris Olympics, particularly amidst challenging climate conditions, underscores her ability to adapt and excel.
As the BMW Dallas Marathon approaches, the excitement surrounding the event continues to build, with Popehn and thousands of other runners ready to hit the streets of Dallas. The marathon not only celebrates athletic achievement but also fosters a sense of community among participants and spectators alike.
