Remembering Mark Knutson

On July 9, 2023, The Fargo Marathon lost our beloved race director, Mark Knutson, in a tragic accident. Mark’s unexpected passing has left an immense void in our hearts and the community he cherished so deeply. We want to take this opportunity to honor Mark’s memory and express our commitment to continuing his remarkable legacy.

Mark, simply put, was not just the Race Director of the Fargo Marathon, but its very essence. His warm and genuine nature endeared him to all who had the privilege of meeting him during his races, and his kindness, drive, and passion were evident to everyone he encountered. He poured his heart and soul into the things he loved—his family, friends, and his events.

Mark was a dear friend to so many within the running community and beyond, and we are profoundly aware of the immeasurable impact Mark had as a pillar of the Fargo community. Over the past 19 years, he dedicated himself to transforming the Fargo Marathon into a world-class event that attracted runners from around the globe. His relentless pursuit of excellence and his commitment to providing an unforgettable experience for all participants set the Fargo Marathon apart. We want to assure you that, in his honor, we are steadfast in our commitment to producing the 20th anniversary of the race and ensuring it is a fitting tribute to the man who touched our hearts in so many ways. Together, we will ensure that the event continues to be a celebration of Fargo, a testament to Mark’s enduring legacy, and an event that would make him proud.

At this time, we kindly ask for your patience and support. We will provide updates on how we plan to honor Mark’s extraordinary life and legacy at a later date. In the meantime, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable individual that Mark was and the countless ways he inspired us all.

Finally, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Mark’s family and friends. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. In light of this enormous loss, the Knutson family kindly requests that donations be made to Shoes for Kids in Mark’s memory, ensuring the continuation of his remarkable legacy and dedication to a cause that meant so much to him.

Let us come together as a community, united by our shared memories and the impact that Mark Knutson has left on our lives.