Olympic Medalist Deena Kastor Named Grand Marshal for Mammoth’s 2026 4th of July Parade
Mammoth Lakes, CA – March 19, 2026
For Immediate Release
Olympic Medalist Deena Kastor Named Grand Marshal for Mammoth’s 2026 4th of July Parade
Mammoth Lakes, CA – The Mammoth Lakes Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Olympic medalist and longtime Mammoth Lakes resident Deena Kastor will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 2026 Mammoth Lakes 4th of July Parade.
A bronze medalist in the women’s marathon at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece, Deena is one of the most accomplished distance runners in U.S. history. She simultaneously held 15 American records across distances from the 5K to the marathon, is a 24-time U.S. National Champion, and has claimed victories at major international races including the Chicago Marathon and the London Marathon. She is also the New York Times bestselling author of Let Your Mind Run: A Memoir of Thinking My Way To Victory.
Beyond her achievements on the world stage, Deena has been deeply connected to Mammoth Lakes for more than 25 years. Alongside her husband, coach Andrew Kastor, she leads the Mammoth Track Club and has played a key role in fostering the region’s running community. In 2012, she helped spearhead the creation of the track and field facility at the Whitmore Recreation Area. Deena and Andrew also organize beloved local events including the Footloose Freedom Mile on the 4th of July and the Footloose Turkey Trot each Thanksgiving.
“For me, running has always been about finding joy in the journey,” said Deena. “Our bodies feel joy on a cellular level, so choose joy. Living in Mammoth has shown me how powerful we can be when people show up for one another and celebrate the outdoors, the lakes, the mountains, and the people who make this place home. I’m honored to be part of this year’s celebration.”
The 2026 4th of July parade theme, Make it Mammoth. Go the Extra Mile ties into the nation’s 250th anniversary while capturing the energy that Deena Kastor brings to Mammoth Lakes.
“The 4th of July Parade is one of the biggest ways everyone comes together each year — locals, visitors, families, and businesses all taking part in the celebration,” said Brianna Goico, President & CEO of the Mammoth Lakes Chamber of Commerce. “It brings real energy into town and creates a moment that supports our local economy. Deena brings that same energy and mindset to her involvement.”
“This year’s theme is all about what makes Mammoth, Mammoth” said Gina van Hest, Communications Director at the Mammoth Lakes Chamber of Commerce. “Make it big, make it local, and bring our Mammoth lifestyle into it — however you want to interpret that. Going the extra mile is about putting in the effort, whether that’s for the parade or simply in how you approach what you do every day.”
The Mammoth Lakes 4th of July Parade will take place Saturday, July 4, 2026. Businesses, nonprofits, and community groups are encouraged to participate by entering a themed float or becoming a parade sponsor. Sponsorship opportunities provide visibility while supporting one of Mammoth’s most cherished annual events for both locals and visitors.
More information about parade participation and sponsorship opportunities can be found on the Mammoth Lakes Chamber of Commerce website.
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