Number 1 Off-Road Marathon in the World features 23 miles of dirt trails and 1,600-foot elevation climb; American Trail Championship finale
The Catalina Marathon will celebrate its 34th edition on Saturday, March 12, 2011, beginning at 7:00am. The event has been rated the #1 Off-Road Marathon in the World. 1,000 athletes are expected to toe the line in Two Harbors to race through the island to Avalon for the finish festivities.
This year, both male and female winners of the Buffalo Run Half Marathon will be there to lead the Catalina Marathon at the start line. The run is comprised of 23 miles on dirt trails, which athletes often share with the Island’s native buffalos. These trails are usually inaccessible to the general public, but runners are given the special treat of running this majestic course.
This race has also been called Runner’s World’s “Cult Marathon of the United States.” Marathoners return year after year to brave the numerous hills and 1,600-foot elevation climb. The hard work is rewarded with amazing views and gorgeous wildlife.
This year’s field includes athletes from 36 different states, and even a few international competitors, including 16 from Canada, Afghanistan, Brazil, Hong Kong, Norway and the United Kingdom.
Along with this weekend’s full 26.2-mile race, the Catalina Marathon offers a 10K, 5K and 1-Mile Kids Run. The 10K, 5K and 1K Kids Run will take place in Avalon starting things off at 8:15am.
The Catalina Marathon is also the final leg of the American Trail Championship, a trail series that includes January’s first Catalina run, the Buffalo Run Half Marathon and February’s run, the Rose Bowl Half Marathon. The combined times of the Buffalo Run, Rose Bowl Half Marathon and Catalina Marathon will determine an American Trail champion.
Jack Caress, the owner of Pacific Sports LLC, says of the event, “The Catalina Marathon is the best trail marathon in the United States. We always enjoy bringing participants to the island from throughout the U.S. and many foreign countries in our fourteenth year of owning and producing this great marathon. It’s a great tradition at one of the most amazing venues in the world.”
For information, questions or to register for the Catalina Marathon, visit www.PacificSportsLLC.com or call (714) 978-1528.