The third annual Carmel Marathon will be held this Saturday, bringing thousands of people from across the country and the world to Carmel.
According to Race Director Todd Oliver, more than 3,500 runners from 39 states and six countries including Brazil, Canada, Switzerland and South Africa are currently registered for the weekend’s events.
Registration is up 31 percent when compared to last year’s marathon with the main race, the half marathon and the Keybank 8k all setting new registration records.
Beyond the marathon itself, the weekend and what it means for Carmel has been embraced by many nearby businesses. Mitchell’s Fish Market in Clay Terrace is creating a special pasta dish. Simply Sweet Shoppe is offering special chocolates. City Center’s Matt the Miller Tavern will be offering a special “runners brunch menu” immediately following the race.
“We are happy to see local businesses activating around our events,” said Oliver.
As runners from around the world and businesses have come to embrace the marathon, so too has the Carmel community. Last year’s event was a major success despite cool temperatures and overcast skies. This year’s marathon will be nearly double the size.
“We hope that the community comes out to support all the runners and walkers who have trained through a cold winter and spring even (if it is just) by pulling up a chair along the course, saying ‘great job,’ playing some music or cheering,” said Oliver. “We just want our participants to enjoy the event and enjoy Carmel.”
Third Annual Carmel Marathon Weekend
What: The third annual Carmel Marathon weekend featuring the Carmel Marathon, the Carmel Half Marathon, the Keybank 8K, the St.Vincent Carmel one-mile Family Fitness Walk and more.
When: Saturday, staging begins at 6:45 a.m. with award ceremonies beginning at 11 a.m. and a post-race celebration scheduled to begin as soon as the ceremonies are completed.
Where: The marathon’s start and finish line is located just north of the Palladium, 1 Center Green, at the intersection of 3rd Avenue and City Center Drive. (See a road closure map on Page 9.) Award ceremonies and the post-race celebration will take place immediately south of the Palladium. The official after party will be held at Stacked Pickle, 12545 Old Meridian St. beginning at 6 p.m.
More info: Visit www.carmelmarathon.com.
