CARRABASSETT VALLEY – For the first time in its 22-year history of the Sugarloaf/USA Marathon and 15K, runners will be competing for a $2,000 cash purse. The event, which is sponsored by UnitedKingfield Bank, will be held Sunday, May 16.
The Sugarloaf Marathon is one of the 15 fastest marathons in the nation and takes competitors through the Western Maine Mountains on a course that ends with a 16-mile descent.
“We’re hoping to attract a new level of regional runner with the addition of cash prizes this year,” said Sue Foster, race director. “We will also enhance the popularity of the event and the overall experience for all of our returning competitors. Our new relationship with UnitedKingfield Bank will allow us to increase runner and course amenities. We’re very excited about this year’s race.”
The Sugarloaf Marathon and 15K provide runners with outstanding views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Wildlife sightings are also common as runners often share the road with the area’s abundant population of moose and deer.
The marathon starts in Cathedral Pines Campground in Eustis, approximately 11 miles north of Sugarloaf. The 15K starts at Ayotte’s Country Store in Carrabassett Valley. Both races take place on Route 27, ending at Jordan Lumber Company in downtown Kingfield. The races, supported by dozens of local businesses, attract hundreds of runners each year from all over the United States and Eastern Canada.
Runners can register for the marathon for $40 before May 8 or $50 before May 15. Registration for the Sugarloaf 15K is $18 before May 15 or $25 on the day of the race. Registration for the marathon must be submitted by May 15. In addition to cash prizes for the top three men and women in each race, all entrants receive a t-shirt, post-race breakfast, massage, and a finisher’s medal to all marathoners. Overall and age group winners will also receive awards.
An all you-can-eat pasta dinner will be served from 5 to 8 p.m. May 15 at the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center.
Net proceeds from the races will benefit the Sugarloaf Regional Charitable Trust, which supports community food pantries, educational programs and cultural activities in the greater Sugarloaf area.
For more information on these racing events or to register online visit www.sugarloafmarathon.com.
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