McKale Montgomery and Bryant Keirns Triumph at the 2022 Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon
Date: August 31, 2022
Contact: Mack Burke | Associate Director of Media Relations | 405-744-5540 | editor@okstate.edu
The 2022 Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon not only marked a significant event in the racing calendar but also showcased the extraordinary achievements of two Oklahoma State University (OSU) athletes. McKale Montgomery and Bryant Keirns were crowned champions in the women’s and men’s divisions respectively, illustrating that the process of training and dedication often outweighs the achievement of the goal itself.
A Tribute to Resilience
Set against the backdrop of the Oklahoma City bombing of 1995, which claimed 168 lives, the marathon serves as a poignant reminder of resilience and remembrance. On April 24, over 20,000 individuals gathered to honor the victims while participating in this momentous event. The marathon has grown significantly over the years, yet its mission to commemorate those lost remains steadfast.
A Journey of Hard Work and Collaboration
Montgomery and Keirns, both associated with OSU’s Department of Nutritional Sciences, have built their success upon a foundation of teamwork and rigorous training. Montgomery, an assistant professor in the College of Education and Human Sciences, not only aimed for victory but also targeted the female course record. With a finish time of 02:41:07, she successfully shattered the previous record during this year’s marathon.
Memorable Moments from the Race
“Having won the marathon previously in 2013, I was determined to return and achieve both victory and a new personal record,” Montgomery shared. Her memories of the bombing from her childhood added a personal element to her efforts; she recalled watching the events unfold on television during her fourth-grade year.
Life Beyond the Finish Line
The marathon was Montgomery’s 33rd race, yet she emphasizes that her journey does not end with each marathon. Balancing her roles as a researcher, mother, and athlete, she appreciates the importance of setting new goals while savoring her achievements. “I’m really focusing on the journey, not just successes,” she explained while preparing for the Olympic trials.
Keirns Finds Strength in Training
Bryant Keirns crossed the finish line at an impressive 02:24:51, marking the first win of his career. As a sixth-year doctoral student, his approach to training has evolved significantly. “I concentrated on gradually increasing my mileage leading up to the race, ensuring I was prepared for the event,” Keirns noted.
The power of consistency in training is a principle Keirns embraces. “The marathon emphasizes how building endurance and strength is a long-term commitment,” he highlighted, which aligns with his academic pursuits in nutritional sciences.
Inspiring Community and Future Goals
The dynamic partnership between Montgomery and Keirns hasn’t gone unnoticed among their peers. Cameron Cardona, a doctoral student in the same department, remarked, “Seeing them win was fantastic. It’s inspiring to see hard work pay off.” Both Montgomery and Keirns exemplify dedication, fostering a rich culture of shared success and motivation within their academic community.
Reflection on the Journey
As both athletes continue their journeys in running and academics, they emphasize the importance of finding joy in the process rather than solely focusing on outcomes. “Winning doesn’t guarantee happiness,” Montgomery reflects. “What matters more is embracing the process.” Their stories serve as a testament to the enduring power of perseverance, collaboration, and the spirit of remembrance that the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon embodies.
