The ability to produce a new event takes vision, creativity and most of all passion. When looking at the Med-City Marathon, it is hard not to be impressed with the excitement this event has created coming off its 20th year this past May after being introduced in 1996.
Wally and Peg Arnold have been the driving forces behind this event and continue to improve the event each year. The Med-City Marathon continues to grow, drawing over 3,800 participants this year from over 35 states and four countries.
Events for the weekend include: the marathon, half marathon, 5K, four-person relay, kids marathon, toddler trot and diaper dash.
With all the success of the Med-City Marathon why not start another marathon? That is exactly what is happening this fall with the inaugural running of the Med-City Fall Half, 10K and 5K on Sept. 20.
The half marathon route will start at the Rochester Airport and include several country roads before passing Mayowood and finishing at Soldiers Field Park. All three races are point-to-point with shuttle buses to each respective start.
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As with the Med-City Marathon in May, creating a festive family environment with activities for racers has been a key contributor to the success of the marathon and will be a major component in the Fall Half Marathon.
Kids will be able to compete in the half mile and mile; kids run free of charge. Racers can expect to enjoy music, several inflatables for the kids zone and the celebrations photo lounge. All finishers will receive a long-sleeve T-shirt and finishers medal. Racers who also raced in the marathon in May will also be recognized for completing the Med-City race circuit.
Currently, more than 450 participants have already registered with the target goal set for 500 to 700 participants for this first year.
When asked about the upcoming Fall Marathon, race director Wally Arnold was overwhelmed with excitement for what the event holds this year and into the future. "With the scenic, fast course, cooler weather and colorful changing of the leaves," he said, "we expect this event to grow larger each year."
For more information on the schedule of events and other race details, please visit www.medcitymarathon.com. Should be another great marathon event weekend in Rochester!
