Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Roseland.
Hi Mark, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
The Texas Marathon began in 2000 thanks to the determination of Rick Worley, who was pursuing a Guinness World Record for running the most marathons on consecutive weekends. Rick ultimately completed 200 marathons in 159 consecutive weeks, and along the way he needed a marathon on New Year’s Day. At the time, the only option available was a very difficult ultra-marathon.
Recognizing this need, Steve and Paula Boone stepped forward and offered to organize another marathon just six days after the Free Kingwood Marathon, using the same course. They gave the race a new name—“Jammin’ in January”—and held it on New Year’s Day. That first race, 27 years ago, welcomed just 16 runners. Today, the event has grown to more than 500 participants, a testament to the Boones’ vision, generosity, and dedication.
Over time, the race has evolved in an important way: it now provides a meaningful opportunity to raise funds for children in need. For the past 20 years, I have run in support of children’s charities, and this event offered the chance to focus and expand that mission. When Steve and Paula announced they would no longer be organizing the race, I asked if I could carry it forward. I had been praying for an opportunity like this for years, and through their generosity, that prayer was answered.
We established a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to support three children’s charities: Orphanos, Global Wheelchair Mission, and Coats for Kids. Our mission is to help create a world where every child can live life to the fullest, regardless of disability or circumstance. With the continued support of the St. Martha Knights of Columbus, we are confident these goals can be achieved.
With a theme centered on mobility, the Texas Marathon bridges a runner’s dream of finishing a marathon with a child’s dream of receiving a wheelchair. On a cold New Year’s Day, our event brings warmth to those in need and creates life-changing opportunities for orphans and disadvantaged children around the world.
We invite our church, community, and local businesses to come together for this special event. Whether you choose to run or walk a half or full marathon, volunteer, sponsor, or simply cheer on the runners, your involvement truly makes a difference.
Additional information can be found at www.texasmarathonkingwood.com.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like any long-running event, the Texas Marathon has had its share of hiccups over the years. In our very first year, we nearly lost our house to a New Year’s Eve fireworks fire just hours before we were supposed to wake up and direct our first marathon. Instead of resting, we spent the night rushing to put out the fire—then got up and ran the race anyway.
In later years, there were moments when the race was nearly shut down due to concerns about runners using local trails, even though we had received proper approval. Each challenge tested our resolve, but perseverance—and a lot of prayer—carried us through.
This past year, however, was the smoothest yet. Starting the race at St. Martha’s Catholic School, with access to a large auditorium, made logistics easier than ever. Even more special was running on trails that truly welcomed us, winding along the beautiful Kingwood Lakes. The combination of strong community support, a welcoming venue, and a scenic course made this year a true blessing and a reminder of how far the Texas Marathon has come.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
After retiring from a 38-year career in the oilfield, I found myself reflecting on how best to give back. My work took me from West Texas to West Africa, and eventually brought me home to Kingwood. Along the way, I was blessed with opportunities to see the world—and also to see great need.
In retirement, I became more involved in charitable work through St. Martha’s Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. Serving alongside so many generous volunteers deepened my desire to do more, especially for causes close to my heart: orphans and children in need.
I knew I wanted to find a way to raise meaningful support for these children—something that would bring people together while making a real difference. That calling ultimately led to expanding the mission of the Texas Marathon, transforming it into not just a race, but a vehicle for hope, generosity, and service to those who need it most.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I use RunReg for setting up my marathons and use WIX for my website editing
Pricing:
- $100 per person for half or full marathon runners
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.texasmarathonkingwood.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMarathonKingwoodCorporation
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-roseland-70777819/
