Over 900 runners set to compete in Sugarloaf Marathon and 15k this weekend

By AlpineZone News |
May 20 2011 - 01:19 PM

CARRABASSETT VALLEY, Maine (May 11, 2011) – More than 900 runners from around the country will hit the pavement this weekend for the 29thAnnual Sugarloaf Marathon and 15k , Maine’s oldest continuously run marathon on Sunday, May 15.

Presented by Landry-French Construction Company , this year’s races will feature a record number of participants, with 934 runners hailing from 29 states and 4 Canadian provinces. Last year’s race featured a total of 709 runners, which was then the largest turnout in the event’s history.

As an official qualifying race for the Boston Marathon certified by the United States Track and Field Association (USATF), the Sugarloaf Marathon is popular among running enthusiasts. Despite its mountainous setting the course is primarily downhill, and ends with a gradual 16 mile descent. Marathon runners regularly record personal-best times at Sugarloaf.

The Sugarloaf Marathon provides runners with spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges and the Carrabassett River. Wildlife sightings are common, as runners share the roads and environment with the area’s abundant population of moose and deer.

Runners can register for the marathon for $78 through Thursday, May 12, and the Sugarloaf 15K for $38 May 12. There will be no on-site or day-of registration for either race. Registration will close at 11pm on Thursday, May 12. Interested runners should visit www.sugarloaf.com/marathon to register online.

All proceeds from the marathon go to the Sugarloaf Region Charitable Trust, which is a private, nonprofit trust dedicated to improving the quality of life for the communities that make up the Sugarloaf Area. Last year the marathon raised more than $10,000 for the Trust, which was distributed to deserving organizations in the Sugarloaf area.

The top three men and women in each race receive cash prizes, and all entrants receive a t-shirt, post-race breakfast, massage, and a finisher’s medal. An all-you-can-eat pasta dinner will be served in the King Pine Room in the Base Lodge the Saturday evening before the race, from 5 to 8 p.m.

For more information on the Sugarloaf Marathon and 15K or to register, please visit www.sugarloaf.com/marathon .

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About the Sugarloaf Resort- Located in Carrabassett Valley, ME, Sugarloaf is largest ski area in the East, and is home to the only lift-serviced above treeline skiing and riding in the East. and the number one golf course in Maine, according to Golf Digest. Sugarloaf is a member of the Boyne Resorts family of resorts and attractions. Follow: www.sugarloaf.com , www.facebook.com/sugarloaf , and http://twitter.com/sugarloafmaine .

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