Ready, set, run ... through the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The Sleeping Bear Marathon hosted by Race Day Events, based in Wisconsin, takes over the Heritage Trail and Empire for most of the day Saturday.
The notoriously hilly and outand- back marathon traverses 26.2 miles from Empire Beach, heading north up and down hills past Pierce Stocking Drive, the Dune Climb, and Glen Haven, trucking past Glen Arbor, before turning around and heading back.
Trees will have some color for the fall race and weather is expected to be in the high 60s and sunny.
The Sleeping Bear Marathon also features a half marathon (13.1) miles and a 5-K that expects to bring in upwards of 1,000 athletes. Breath-taking views and intense inclines are thrills these runners are looking for at the Boston Marathon qualifier course.
Marathon runners will begin at 7:30 a.m. followed by the half marathon at 8 a.m. and 5K run/ walk at 8:20 a.m.
Full and half marathon runners are exposed to pay for a National Park. 5K participants don’t need a pass.
Parking will be at Lion’s Club Johnson Park in Empire that quickly overflows throughout the village. Shuttle Buses will be available from 6 to 7:45 a.m. from Johnson Park to Empire Beach.
Cost of running: Marathon $115-$125; half marathon $105$115; 5K $55-$65.
Racers receive a finisher shirt and medal along with post-race refreshments and a snack. Shorts Brewery beer will be available at the end to quench thirst. Free digital race photos will be available from Focal Flame Photography.
Those interested in competing and volunteering in the Sleeping Bear Marathon can find more information by visiting: www.sleepingbearmarathon.com
