A new generation sets the pace at Houston Marathon

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- It all started in 1972 when Walter Kokernot ran in the very first Houston Marathon. According to his family, Walter was part of the Memorial High School Cross Country team, and the group decided to run in the race the night before with little preparation.

"At mile 13, he got blisters and decided to run half the marathon barefoot," His sister, Peggy Kokernot-Kaplan, told us. "Yes, he crossed the finish line barefoot, running 4:35. That was our brother."

Six years later, Peggy ran in the 1978 Houston Marathon and won the women's race.

Running is in the family's DNA.

Their mother, Edith, also ran marathons at a time when many women didn't.

Today, a new generation sets the pace.

The baton is being passed to Edith's granddaughter, Stephanie Keinz, who ran in the 2026 Houston Marathon.

Her family travelled from across the country to cheer her on near Mile 23, including her mom, Diana Kokernot-Britton, a Houston Marathon legacy runner herself.

"I'm thrilled my daughter is carrying on the torch of our mother," Diana shared.

ABC13 was there as Stephanie crossed the finish line.

"It was a dream," Stephanie said. "I really just feel so lucky to be able to do this and continue that legacy."

From the sidelines of the finish line, Diana shouted, "I'm so proud of you... you did it!"

Stephanie's goal was to beat her grandmother's time of four hours. She finished the race at 3:49:06.