This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Whether you're a seasoned athlete going after a personal record or are new and ready to conquer your first 5K, this year's Salt Lake City Marathon is on track to be another unforgettable experience. Scheduled Saturday, April 16, the marathon will bring thousands of runners, cyclists, skaters, volunteers, exhibitors and spectators together to share in this day of celebration. Here are your Top 8 Reasons to be a part of the 2016 Salt Lake City Marathon and register for this Beautiful Challenge.
1. Six Different Events
Beyond the 26.2 mile Marathon, the event offers a variety of courses for everyone of different experience levels, including a Half Marathon and a 5K course, which are perfect for runners looking for a shorter challenge, a Bike Tour covering 26 miles across the valley, and a Kid's Marathon for children ages one to 10. There's also the 10K Skate category, which is open to inline and quad skaters of all experience levels. There's truly Something for Everyone!
2. Where Beauty Meets Determination
The Salt Lake City Marathon showcases the best of Salt Lake City. The course starts at historic Olympic Legacy Bridge at the University of Utah, the site of the 2002 Winter Olympic Athlete Village. It winds through scenic Federal Heights and 11th Avenue before dropping into downtown Salt Lake through Eagle Gate and passing Temple Square through Memory Grove. The course then takes runners through Sugar House and Liberty Park until they reach the finish line between the downtown library and Washington Square.
3. Cheer and Entertainment Awards
The Salt Lake City Marathon will be hosting the second annual cheer and entertainment zone competition at this year's race! Create excitement for the runners along the marathon course as you cheer on your family, friends and neighbors. Two of the best cheer and entertainment teams will win a $500 prize! The winners will be announced one week after the event via social media and email. We're excited to see what kind of stations you come up with for this year!
The Quality of Life Expo features a variety of exhibitors showcasing the latest trends, designs and advances in running shoes and apparel. The expo also includes information on various sports, fitness and nutrition. All runners must pick up their packets at the expo, but the event is open to everyone. The expo is scheduled Friday, April 15 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Utah State Fairgrounds.
5. Great Volunteer Opportunities
Calling all volunteers! The marathon can't run without the help of its volunteers. As a volunteer, you have the opportunity to be part of the team for the Salt Lake City Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K Skate, 5K, Kid's Marathon and Bike Tour. Not only will you get one of the "best seats in the house" to watch the race, you'll be able to get involved with your neighbors and show support for these amazing athletes!
6. Run for Cancer Research
This year's race will support Huntsman Hometown Heroes (HHH), a fundraising program that provides athletes with personalized coaching, special access to events and a team jersey, while raising much-needed funds for cancer research at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. Each HHH participant commits to raising a pre-determined amount of money for participating in this event ($500 for the marathon, $200 for the 5K). 100 percent of all funds raised are used to fuel cancer research at Huntsman Cancer Institute.
7. Fun for Everyone
While the marathon is the main attraction, the event has something for everyone. The event will include a live band, Beer Garden, and a kid's activity area with arts and crafts, a bounce house and an obstacle course. The finish line will serve up refreshing treats, including fresh-made Kodiak pancakes and syrup!
8. Celebrating Each Other, Together
Whether you're a new or seasoned athlete ready to race across the finish line, a volunteer providing much-needed services, or a friend cheering on another friend, the Salt Lake City Marathon is a time for the entire community to come together and celebrate each other.
Beautiful? Yes. Challenging? Absolutely. And being A Beautiful Challenge is what makes the Salt Lake City Marathon a race you need to experience for yourself.
Register today at www.saltlakecitymarathon.com.