Reston will have its very own marathon and half marathon on March 24th. The event is to be hosted by Reston Runners and sponsors such as Reston Association and John Marshall Bank. This is the area’s first marathon ever, and over 600 runners have already signed up.
The race will start and finish at South Lakes High School. The marathon is planned to start at 7:30 a.m. and the half marathon will start at 8 a.m. The marathon consists of 26.2 miles and the half-marathon has a distance of 13.1 miles.
The course will run through many of Reston’s paths, with scenic views and roads. Water stops are will be every 2 miles.
Registration for the marathon opened Sept. 30 last year and it will end on Saturday, March 16 but will end early if registration fills up. There are two ways available to register. Registrants can print the registration form online on their website and mail it or register online.
The fee is currently $95 to run in the half marathon or marathon. Registrants will receive a race shirt and be electronically timed by Amazing Race Timing.
“We decided to have the marathon here in Reston for many reasons,” said Ellen Mannion, a running coach and member of the Reston Race Committee. “Reston is home to many great events, such as the Reston Triathlon, Reston Century and the Jim McDonnell Lake Swim. The marathon was a good addition.”
The marathon and half marathon are expected to be both fun and competitive.
“More people participate in the half marathon which is typical during an event that offers both distances,” Mannion said.
The event is definite to return next year. Volunteers are welcome and they can register online to volunteer. Awards will be given to people who place in the top three of their age division.
The Packet pick-up, Race expo and a pre-race dinner is to be at the Reston Community Center. Packets are available any time to pick up. The pre-race dinner will be hosted the day before the race.
Runners will receive a chip to put on their shoe so they are electronically timed. All finishers will receive a finisher’s medal.
For more information and volunteering opportunities go to runnersmarathon.com or contact info@runnersmarathon.com.
