'50 States in 50 Weeks' Visits Idaho

Good Morning America
Good Morning AmericaMay 15, 2026

Why It Matters

The marathon leverages Idaho’s iconic potato heritage to attract runners and tourists, generating economic activity and reinforcing state branding.

Key Takeaways

  • Boise hosts the 49th Famous Idaho Potato Marathon on Greenbelt.
  • Race includes half‑marathon, fun runs, and a 20‑ft potato display.
  • Guinness‑breaker David Rush attempts 125‑140 shirts record during marathon.
  • Runner Brittany Lock dedicates race to her late mother’s memory.
  • Finishers receive baked potatoes; event serves roughly 4,000 potatoes total.

Summary

The video spotlights Boise’s annual Famous Idaho Potato Marathon, a 4‑mile race held along the city’s scenic Greenbelt and celebrated as the state’s signature running event.

Now in its 49th year, the marathon offers a half‑marathon, a “tater trot” fun run, and a towering 20‑foot potato sculpture. Organizers anticipate handing out roughly 4,000 baked potatoes to finishers, and the flat, river‑side course qualifies runners for the Boston Marathon.

Guinness World Record holder David Rush plans to wear between 125 and 140 shirts, aiming to shatter his own record, while local runner Brittany Lock runs in memory of her late mother. Event director Griffin Getman emphasizes the potato prize as a unique draw for participants.

The race blends community spirit, charitable causes, and Idaho’s agricultural branding, boosting tourism and reinforcing the state’s identity as the “Potato State” while promoting health and local business.

Original Description

"GMA" visits Boise and joins the famous Idaho Potato Marathon to learn why the race is so beloved.
Over 50 weeks starting in July 2025, "GMA" will visit all 50 states, leading up to the nation's 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026.
Each week, a “GMA” anchor or correspondent will visit a new state, following the order in which they joined the United States.
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