Epic Races: The Leavenworth Marathon

The Warm Up:

Dreaming of running through epic nature? A fast course? The promise of a crisp pint of Bavarian beer at the end? We’ve got the race for you.

In this edition of the The Stride we’re taking the scenic route through one of this year’s epic races, The 2024 Leavenworth Marathon.

  • One of the fastest marathon courses in the United States

  • A Boston Qualifier!

  • 🍻 Set in a Bavarian-style village tucked into the Cascade Mountains of Washington state

The Race: The 2024 Leavenworth Marathon 🏁

  • Date: October 5th, 2024

  • Location: Leavenworth, Washington

  • Distances: Half Marathon, Marathon

Overview: Scenic, Fast, and Charitable

The Leavenworth Marathon, established in 2002, is an annual event held in the picturesque town of Leavenworth, Washington.

  • Known for its scenic course, the marathon takes runners through the stunning landscapes of the North Cascades, following routes alongside the Wenatchee River and through the Icicle Valley.

  • Proceeds from the Leavenworth Marathon are invested in the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center at Columbia University.

Results & Records

Over the years, the Leavenworth Marathon has seen many memorable performances, with participants often returning to experience the unique charm of the race, its surroundings, and the possibility of Boston Marathon qualification 🤩

  • With a net downhill of 1,462 feet, the Leavenworth Marathon is considered one of the fasted marathon courses in the United States.

  • Course records currently stand at 2:32:11 (Men, 2009) and 2:55:49 (Women, 2022).

Location: A Bavarian Village in Washington State?

Yep, your European inspired race dreams are right here in United States. Leavenworth is a Bavarian-style village set in the Cascade Mountains which promises the sweet satisfaction of that first sip of a cold beverage after the end of the race.

  • Originally a struggling logging town, Leavenworth reimagined it’s potential in the 1960s by building a Bavarian theme to drive interest and tourism.

  • Today, Leavenworth is a popular destination known for its vibrant festivals around the German Oktoberfest period, charming Bavarian-themed shops, and authentic German cuisine.

Making the Miles Count: Community & Charity Investment

  • TedDriven, the organization behind the Leavenworth Marathon, partners with nearly a dozen local groups each year, allowing these organizations to use the marathon as a fundraising opportunity while providing a smooth and memorable race experience for participants.

  • TedDriven also focuses specifically on supporting cutting-edge cancer research and local survivor support. Proceeds from the Leavenworth Marathon are invested in the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center at Columbia University.

Ready for your Bavarian-style marathon adventure?

The Cool Down:

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Happy Running!

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