The annual Marathon by the Sea in Saint John, which describes itself as the east coast’s only summertime racing event, is hoping to surpass the 1900-runner mark this weekend.
The event is in its 23rd year and features a number of different runs including the 42-kilometre marathon on Sunday morning which is a qualifying course for next year’s Boston Marathon. While the views might be nice, co-director of Marathon By the Sea Rod Paul warns it’s not exactly an easy trek.
“If you can get your Boston qualifier here you have something to brag about,” says Paul. “Our full marathon and the half marathon are very rugged runs, when you get up into Rockwood Park you, yeah, some people have some choice words for us when they finish.”
If you’re up for the challenge, registration and the start and finish for all the events are all being held at the Diamond Jubilee Cruise Terminal on Water Street in the uptown area.
Along with the half marathon and full marathon there are two 5Ks, a 10K and a Kids’ Run happening this weekend. You can also take on what’s called the Port City challenge.
“If you do the 5K Into the Night and the 5K Saturday run and either the 10 the half or the full you will actually get a special medal and all kinds of bling,” says Paul.
You can find more information on the Marathon By the Sea website.
