The races, sponsored by Captive Forces of Portland, have drawn hundreds of runners in the past and are expected to bring in contestants from all over the United States and Eastern Canada. The two races will be held on Maine Route 27, starting at different locations, but ending at the same finishing line. Despite the mountainous terrain, the course remains one of top 15 fastest marathon courses in the nation.
Runners have the choice of doing the marathon as part of a team or on their own.
As part of a team, runners must exchange wristbands at specified exchange zones. Racers receive a t-shirt and breakfast with their registration and also a free massage from masseuses who will be stationed in a tent at the finish line. All contestants receive a finisher s medal and those placing the highest will receive Monroe Saltworks pottery prizes with the event name engraved in it. Proceeds from the races will go towards the Sugarloaf Charitable Trust. With the foliage blooming and the weather warming up a bit, the runners get treated to a wonderfully scenic course.