There was a time not long ago when the future of the God’s Country Marathon was very much in jeopardy. Participation was falling. Endurance events were losing favor as runners opted for shorter routes. Volunteers were harder to find.

In 2012, in an effort to stop the bleeding, organizers from the Potter County Visitors Assn. (PCVA) made the fateful decision to tinker with the race’s formatting. A full 26.2-mile race would continue, but runners would be offered a less-challenging option – a half-marathon.

Additionally, to appeal to even casual runners, a relay option was offered, where five runners would team up to run the course.

Eventually, the number of runners opting for the 13.1-miler surpassed the full marathoners. One recent race drew 79 runners in the full marathon and another 98 in the half-marathon, along with five relay teams entered.

Seven years later after the format adjustment, the future of the marathon was once again in doubt. PCVA had dissolved. Meanwhile, a group of running enthusiasts brimming with energy and an appreciation for the marathon’s history and significance came to the fore to fill the leadership void. Each of them had local roots. They had bonded as runners in the relay division and recognized the importance of keeping the race alive. The Potter County Education Council swooped in to rescue the race by providing a certified nonprofit financial foundation. Net proceeds from the marathon continue to be used by the council to support local community efforts and initiatives.

All five members of the team that stepped up in 2019 have been running with the event ever since. Karen Larsen, race chair, explained why: “Our passion for running, combined with the breathtaking beauty of our region, brings us immense joy and also brings people from other areas together with our community.”

Rich Neefe, who has overseen the water stations and coordinated volunteers, has announced that, to mark the golden anniversary, the committee is holding a contest for Best Water Station, voted on by the runners themselves.

“Our volunteers bring the magic to every mile,” Neefe explained. “Their energy and creativity fuel this race just as much as the water they hand out. We’re beyond grateful for everything they do.”

Rounding out the committee members are Amy Long, Britta Petrich, and Jessica Songster. The group reports that word of the golden anniversary milestone has been spreading. Participation is expected to pass the 200 mark, as runners from other regions test their abilities on the course and interest grows among scholastic athletes, particularly in the relay.

Larsen said the one enduring asset in Potter County has been the community support: “More than 100 volunteers, local businesses, and community members come together to enjoy this exciting event in our own backyard. We are incredibly grateful for our sponsors, whose funding makes this event possible, and our faithful volunteers, whose commitment of time and energy is invaluable.”

UPMC has signed on as official race partner. C&N and Denton Go are presenting partners. Seneca Resources is sponsoring the finish line and Zito Media is handling packet distribution, both contributing as event partners. Wending Creek Farms has donated maple syrup samples for gift bags to be presented to each runner.

The God’s Country Marathon is taking place today. Marathon runners will step off from the Galeton Area School parking lot at 7 am. Half-marathon participants lined up at Denton Hill State Park will answer the starter’s gun at 8 am.

Spectators are invited to turn out along the course to cheer on runners. An awards ceremony will take place at 12:30 pm.