Dakotah Popehn wins third career Grandma’s Marathon

Dakotah Popehn won the women’s Grandma’s Marathon with an unofficial time of 2:28:51, according to race results. The St. Francis native is now one of only three women to claim three titles in the event’s history, joining Lorraine Moller and Mary Akor in an elite group of three-time champions.

How does Dakotah Popehn’s victory compare to previous years?

Popehn’s latest win marks a return to the top of the podium after a second-place finish in 2023. According to race data, she clocked 2:26:56 during that 2023 appearance.

Her performance varies when compared to her first victory. In 2022, Popehn won the race with a time of 2:25:01. This makes her unofficial 2026 time of 2:28:51 slower than her 2022 winning mark, though it secured her the title once again.

Who challenged the lead in the women’s division?

Bashanke Bilo took second place with an unofficial time of 2:29:56. This race served as Bilo’s North American debut, according to race reports.

Bilo finished roughly one minute behind Popehn. Her performance suggests a growing trend of international athletes using regional North American races to establish their presence in the Western running circuit.

What trends are emerging in regional marathon championships?

The dominance of “legacy” runners like Popehn indicates that familiarity with a course provides a significant competitive advantage. When a runner understands the topography and climate of a specific route, they can pace more effectively than newcomers.

We’re also seeing a broader expansion of competitive categories. Recent results show high-level competition across multiple divisions, including the Wheelchair Marathon and the Garry Bjorklund Men’s race. According to race listings, Amanuel Mesel claimed his first title, while Sanclemente achieved a “three-peat” in the wheelchair division.

This diversification suggests that regional marathons are evolving into multi-discipline festivals rather than single-event races. This attracts a wider array of sponsors and a more diverse athlete pool.

How are other divisions performing at Grandma’s Marathon?

The 2026 event saw a variety of first-time and returning champions. According to reported results, the following athletes took top honors:

• Amanuel Mesel: First-time Grandma’s Marathon title winner.
• Michelle Wheeler: Champion of the Grandma’s Wheelchair Marathon.
• Sanclemente: Third consecutive win in the Grandma’s Wheelchair Marathon.
• Kasandra Parker: 2026 Women’s Half Marathon Champion.
• Acer Iverson: 2026 Garry Bjorklund Men’s Champion.

The overlap of first-time winners and three-time champions shows a healthy cycle of talent. New athletes like Mesel are entering the fray, while veterans like Popehn and Sanclemente maintain their grip on the record books.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the third woman to win Grandma’s Marathon three times?
Dakotah Popehn is the third woman to achieve this, joining Lorraine Moller and Mary Akor.

What was Dakotah Popehn’s winning time in 2026?
She finished with an unofficial time of 2:28:51.

Who placed second in the women’s marathon?
Bashanke Bilo placed second with an unofficial time of 2:29:56 in her North American debut.

Which other athletes won titles at the event?
Winners included Amanuel Mesel, Michelle Wheeler, Sanclemente, Kasandra Parker, and Acer Iverson.