Marathon on A Mountain

Can you imagine a marathon on a mountain? I can't.

But I've also run one...

How does that work?

Mount Marathon

 

Thanks to my Mom for getting the pictures to me

An iconic annual race officially began on July 4, 1915. Known as Mount Marathon, the race is held in Seward, AK and is a popular event that touches the people around the world! The race is held annually on July fourth, but it isn't easy to get a slot in. Racing is sought after by everyone who makes their way to the scene, from places like Colorado, Canada, Australia, and even a number of European countries! Slots are either earned by winning other races that are declared eligible races, or won through lottery or raffle. If you're lucky you'll get a spot through raffle, but the truly dedicated pay thousands to race! The only upside is that once you race once you are guaranteed a slot to race in the next consecutive year. But don't miss a year or else the slot will be forfeited to the next racer!

The race itself consists of a mile and a half up and another mile and a half down! I know... it's not really a marathon, but its up a mountain so it makes up for it (not really). The mountain isn't your normal mountain though. The popular route takes you through a section with heavy foliage first. Honestly, it was like rock climbing and tree climbing had a baby. Then you would bust through the forest's limits and race up loose shale until you reached the turnaround point. For the 17 and younger race the turnaround was about two thirds of the way up the whole mountain. Adults trek the whole ordeal. The fastest standing time for the whole race stands at 41:48 by Kilian Jornet Burgada from 2015.

The way down, which is also the other way up, consists of falling rocks, a lot of "Heads Up!" and a waterfall! If you choose to you may brave the waterfall, but be warned, extensive and life threatening injuries have been realized within that short 30 second stretch of danger. The safer way down is through a series of switchbacks in the trees. You are informed of the dangers before each race as the gruesome pictures of broken legs and people being removed from the race by stretcher due to nasty falls (normally down the waterfall...).Regardless, everyone races, whether because we're crazy, don't care, or don't scare easy, I don't know.

Beyond the race, Seward is filled with life during the week of the fourth. People from all over the world come to celebrate the holiday, event, and the outdoors in general. Most people camp or stay in cabins during the week, and it is an experience not easily forgotten. With all the opportunities that come with the week it makes my top ten list of places to go on random vacations if you ever feel the need to get away, specifically on the fourth!