COUDERSPORT — Registration is now open for the 2014 God’s Country Marathon, Half Marathon and Team Relay.
This year’s races will be held June 7.
Runners can register online at www.godscountrymarathon.com or by contacting the Potter County Visitors Association at potter@penn.com or 814-274-3365. Early bird rates are in effect until March 31.
2014 will be the 40th running of the God’s Country Marathon, making it the second most longstanding marathon in Pennsylvania. Organizers hope to make this a very special year for runners, volunteers and spectators, with added festivities and a celebration of the God’s Country Marathon going “Over the Hill.”
“We’re very proud of this great tradition,” said Race Director, David Brooks. “Our runners and volunteers are amazing people.”
The God’s Country Marathon has been named one of the “best small marathons” and one of the “ten toughest marathons” in the USA by Runner’s World Magazine. The course takes runners on a scenic and challenging journey from Galeton to Coudersport along Route 6 via Denton Hill. The challenge of the marathon is “Conquering the Hill,” which reaches an elevation of 2424 feet above sea level.
For full marathon runners, “the hill” is halfway along the journey. Those who participate in the half marathon begin at Denton Hill State Park at the base of the hill and “Conquer the Hill” in the first few miles of the race. The team relay option allows teams of five to run the entire 26.2 mile course in intervals of 5K to 12K.
Cash awards of $500, $250 and $100 will go to the top three male and female finishers, respectively, in the full marathon. The top three male and female finishers in the half marathon will receive $250, $100 and $50 cash prizes.
Those interested in learning more, sponsoring the marathon or volunteering on race day may contact PCVA at 814-274-3365 or potter@penn.com.
The God’s Country Marathon is a USA Track and Field sanctioned event and certified course and a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon. For more information visit www.godscountrymarathon.com.
