Mountain Utilized for Race

Mt. Marathon is appropriately named because it is not only great for an average hiker to climb and explore, it is used for the annual Mt. Marathon race. Hikes up the mountain can be quick and last less than an hour, if you are speedy. Those who have hiked the mountain always agree, it must be tough work to run the marathon! The marathon is held on July first and was first run in 1908. The first official organized race was held in 1915. It includes the mile and a half climb and descent for a total of a three mile race. Runners will be navigating fields, waterfalls, cliffs, and must make sure they are not distracted by the amazing views on their way up or down. Each year the race grows and in 1985, a women's race was added to the marathon, as well as juniors in 1994, and in 2005, a staggered start was enacted for senior racers. The story behind the race is just as interesting as the race itself. The tradition supposedly began when two locals got into an argument about whether it was possible to ascend and descend the mountain in less than an hour. The bet resulted in the losing gambler finishing the race in one hour and two minutes, which left him responsible for buying drinks for all in the crowd.