FRESHJUNKIE Racing Celebrates Dual Honors as Best Marathons in Mississippi and Louisiana

May 7, 2026

Keesler Federal Mississippi Gulf Coast Marathon and Louisiana Marathon Earn Top Rankings from Runners on FindMyMarathon.com

Baton Rouge, LA / Biloxi, MS (May 7, 2026) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ — FRESHJUNKIE Racing is proud to announce that two of its signature events have earned top honors in the 2026 rankings by FindMyMarathon.com, one of the most trusted resources for marathon reviews and race discovery.

The Keesler Federal Mississippi Gulf Coast Marathon has been named the Best Marathon in Mississippi, while the Louisiana Marathon has been recognized as the Best Marathon in Louisiana—both based on ratings and reviews from runners across the country.

These accolades reflect the voice of the running community, highlighting the exceptional race experiences, scenic courses, and community-driven atmospheres that define both events.

“To be recognized by the runners themselves is the highest honor we can receive,” said Michael Wattigny, Founder and Marketing Director of FRESHJUNKIE Racing. “Both of these races are built with the runner experience at the forefront—from the start line to the finish line and everything in between. These awards validate the passion and dedication our team, partners, and communities bring to each event.”

A Coastline Experience Like No Other

The Keesler Federal Mississippi Gulf Coast Marathon, celebrating its 10 year anniversary in 2026, offers a uniquely scenic, point-to-point course along the Gulf Coast. Runners experience breathtaking waterfront views, vibrant coastal communities, and a finish at Keesler Federal Park in Biloxi—home of the Biloxi Shuckers. Known for its hospitality and flat, fast course, the event continues to attract participants from across the U.S. and beyond.

A Running Festival with Lagniappe

The Louisiana Marathon, held annually in Baton Rouge, has grown into one of the premier destination races in the Southeast. Branded as a “Running Festival with Lagniappe,” the event combines a world-class race experience with Louisiana’s signature culture—featuring local cuisine, live music, and a high-energy finish festival. With continued growth and momentum heading into its 16th year, the Louisiana Marathon is on pace to welcome record participation.

“These recognitions are a testament to the communities that support these events,” Wattigny added. “From our volunteers and sponsors to the runners who travel from near and far, it takes all of us to create something truly special.”

The FindMyMarathon rankings are based on runner-submitted reviews and ratings, evaluating factors such as course quality, organization, crowd support, and overall race experience.

These latest honors add to a growing list of national recognition for FRESHJUNKIE Racing events. In addition to the 2026 FindMyMarathon rankings, both events were also named Best Half Marathon in their respective states for 2026 by runners on RaceRaves. The momentum extends even further, as both the Keesler Federal Mississippi Gulf Coast Marathon and the Louisiana Marathon enter 2026 as the defending Best Marathons in their respective states from the 2025 RaceRaves rankings, reinforcing their reputation as premier destination races in the Southeast.

For more information or to register for upcoming events, visit:
www.mscoastmarathon.com
www.thelouisianamarathon.com

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About the Louisiana Marathon:

Voted Best Marathon & Best Half Marathon 2025 on RaceRaves and many years prior. Winner Best Louisiana Half Marathon on Half Marathons Guide.

About FRESHJUNKIE Racing:

FRESHJUNKIE Racing (FJR) is an event production company based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Producing events since 2010, FJR manages, markets, and produces 15 events annually across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. Creating memorable experiences for 50,000 participants annually, the events produce over $15 million in economic impact in the communities and $2.7 million in charitable impact. For more info, visit: freshjunkieracing.com.

Contact:

Mike Wattigny, Marketing Director | mike@freshjunkie.com | (504) 952-2899