The County Marathon 2024
The Prince Edward County Marathon 2024
Marathon, Half Marathon & Ultra 50K

Mark your calendars! Online Registration is now OPEN for this year’s, 21st running of “The County Marathon” aka: “The Prince Edward County Marathon”. Run date is Sunday, September 29, 2024! Under new ownership by experienced Race Director Brian McLean.

Both Marathon and Half Marathon courses are Athletic Canada Certified Courses (ACCC) – Accurate qualifier for world-wide marathons, including the famous North American Boston Marathon. Imagine the thrill of qualifying while running your race in the stunning, let’s not say…breathtaking scenery of the County!

The County Marathon has been an annual event since 2003, including a ‘virtual alternative” after the 2020 road race was cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Both The Marathon and Half Marathon are point to point routes with the Marathon starting in Wellington, passing through Bloomfield before finishing in Picton, Ontario. These towns have graciously hosted, supported and attracted volunteers and spectators along this scenic route making it the “County Way”. The Half Marathon will start just outside our famous Sandbanks Provincial Park before finishing in Picton, Ontario.

Run the County roads while transcending into the depths of pristine waterline views, rolling hillsides, farmland, historic energy, while breathing in crisp clean Prince Edward County air that will propel you towards your ultimate goal of personal best completion. This is a fast, flat scenic route that you will cherish to the core. Make the County Marathon your choice to compete and qualify for Boston while you are enjoying the tourist attractions and events such as:

Stay tune for updated County events on Marathon Weekend.

There will be plenty of water/aid stations along the way to help you stay hydrated and motivated to continue running while enjoying your breath-taking views.

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New Venue – Evergreen Brick Works located at 550 Bayview Avenue
New Scenic Route – Run the Bayview Extension and Rosedale Valley Road

PICTON, December 14, 2023 - Community support for Back the Build came racing in again from County Marathon participants.

Mark Henry, the County Marathon’s current race director and Brian McLean, the marathon’s incoming race director, presented the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation (PECMHF) with $8,000 on December 14. The funds were donated by marathoners and community members who pledged support to the hospital foundation as part of the 2023 race. As with other years, the County Marathon contributed funds as well.

The County Marathon Committee is thrilled to be able to donate to the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation's Back the Build program, especially now, given the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Auxiliary’s pledge to match all donations over the holiday season,” said Henry.

For the past 20 years, this 42.2 km and 21.1 km race has taken runners past three lakes and through three villages while surrounding them with the beautiful autumn colours of Prince Edward County. The County Marathon committee is so grateful that the community has embraced the events, especially the many volunteers who have made it happen every year since 2004.

“I'm very proud to be part of the philanthropic community that supports our new County hospital so enthusiastically,” said Nancy Parks, chairperson of the Back the Build campaign. “The hospital provides outstanding care to many in our community. The foundation board of directors and campaign cabinet want to ensure our new hospital has the necessary equipment and resources when illness strikes. It's comforting to know that Prince Edward County will continue to have a great hospital, equipped to make a difference –all because of donors who care.”

The County Marathon committee has donated almost $30,000 to PECMHF and remains committed to supporting the local hospital and community. After 20 years in charge, the current Race Director and Chairperson of the Board, Mark Henry and Lynne Ellis, are announcing a new Race Director, Brian McLean.  Along with his partner Trish McLean, they will bring new energy with their plans to take the County Marathon to the next level.

“The County Marathon has always depended on the support and cooperation of the Prince Edward County community.  So many people from The County have come out year after year.  Groups such as Wellington Rotary, Dairy Farmers of Prince Edward, Hastings Prince Edward EMS, First Student Canada bus line, the extraordinary efforts of County staff and the critically important expertise of the Prince Edward County OPP.  These key entities, among others, have collectively allowed us to deliver a first-class running event year after year,” said Henry.  “We have always been eager to continue to give back to the community by supporting our local hospital with notable individual donations from runners, including top donors Carolyn Gummo, Lynne Bridgewater, Kim-Ellen Hurst, James Claque, Laura Westerhof and Scott Gougeon.”

The County Marathon will host its 21st race on September 29, 2024. The Marathon Committee is actively seeking volunteers for next year’s race. For more information and, ideally, to volunteer, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to raising funds to advance health care for the people of Prince Edward County and the patients of the hospital.

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October 3rd 2023

Dear runners, the organizing committee thanks you for running on such a beautifully sunny and windless day. However, one far hotter than we have ever planned for before. We truly appreciated your drive to complete on such a surprisingly difficult day to run.

Sincere thanks from the race committee.

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Dear Runners;

We have reached our limit for runners to receive medals and race shirts.  Clearly the weather is going to be perfect.  If you still would like to register using Race Roster, please use access code Mark23 to allow you to register.  Rest assured you will still get bus rides, racing bibs, water, orange gatorade and GU along the route.  Also the chance to win Mizuno prizes and  Base31 prizes (Base31 Ultra!), and, of course, at the finish line, chocolate milk, Prince Eddies beer and recovery snacks.

Thanks so much for your interest in our races.  If you decide to register on this weekend in person, please bring $130 in cash for your registration

Cheers and see you this weekend?

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 September 27th 2023

Dear Runners;

We are closing in on our 20th running with perfect weather predicted!  We wanted to recognize Escape Landscaping  for their assistance in pulling the marathon together.  We also wanted to note the efforts of Cordes Property Solutions for their services as well.  Thank you also to the Eddie Hotel and Farm for providing their organic apples for the finish line.  Thank you to the Dairy Farmers of Prince Edward for providing chocolate milk at the finish line and Prince Eddies Brewery for providing their Fast Eddies light beer to our runners of a certain age in the Rotary Hall post race.

KInd support from the Prince Edward County community and its businesses has driven the County Marathon since 2004.  See you on Sunday as a runner, spectator or perhaps as a road closure volunteer?

Scroll down for event details and to see our other great sponsors!

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September 20th 2023;

Thanks to Prinzen Ford our pace car for this year will be the all new electric Mustang! It's a vehicle they had already delivered! The owner is kindly allowing it to be used for this one event. Thank you to the owner and Prinzen Ford!!

Also thanks to Erin for putting 14 pace bunnies on our routes this year. There is no better way to nail your hoped for time than to follow one of these exceptional runners.

Half Marathon bunnies are delivering these times 1:40,1:45,1:50,2:00,2:10,2:15,2:30 and a sweep.
Full Marathon bunnies are delivering these times 3:30,3:45,4:00,4:15,4:45

So your choices are clear, if you can't quite keep up with the Mustang, perhaps these other clearly marked participants can help you get your best time at our 20th!

Best of luck,- from the Marathon Committee - you still have a few days to register before our last price increase!

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September 18th 2023

2023 Event Details

Course Rules

• Stay to the right hand side of the road at all times except for the final KM to the finish (pylons will direct you to the left). This is for safety and Boston Qualifying standards.

Race Start Times

• The full marathon & Ultra start at 8:00am in Wellington at 167 Niles Street (Ball Diamond).
• For anyone planning to be 5 ½ hours or longer there will be an early 7:30am start for the full marathon.
• The half marathon starts at 10:00am at the junction of County Road #12 & County Road #18.

Vehicles

• Parking is at the Rotary Hall and in front and behind the arena 375 Main St., Picton. Runners will be transported to start lines via buses - please be on time!
• The Wellington Arena will be open providing access to washrooms and the indoor walking track.
• For the safety of runners no unauthorized people, vehicles or bicycles are permitted on the route. These are official police road closures. You will be towed if you park on the main street outside the fairgrounds.

Buses

(If you plan on getting yourself to the start of the full NOTE: Roads start to close at 7:30am No exceptions)

• Full Marathon and Ultra 6:45am
• Half Marathon 8:30am

Bib

• Marathon bibs are blue, half-marathon bibs are yellow, and the Ultra bibs are green on white.

Chips

• Your chip is in your bib, you must wear it at all times.

Medical Assistance

• Massage therapists are available in the Rotary Hall at the finish line.
• The finish line will have emergency trained physicians and first response trained volunteer fire fighters.
• Ambulance crews will provide constant surveillance during the race.

Baggage Drop Off

• Check your bag at the start line for transport to the finish line (bag tag provided at race kit pick-up).

Showers

• Showers will be available in the Community Centre, 376 Main Street, Picton from 11am-2pm. Males will use the ball diamond washroom/showers and females enter the back of the arena to get to the closest door on your right - the referee shower room.

Re/Max Water Stations

• Water/Orange Gatorade stations are every 4km (first 2 water stations will have water only) in the first half of the course for Full and Ultra runners. In the 2nd half there are stations every 2 KM. GU gels will be available at water stations 20km and 30km. All water and Gatorade will be provided in sanitary single use bottles - please try to throw your empties into the recycling bins located past every station. Port-a-Potties are located just past each water station and the half marathon start line. At the Full and Ultra start line there are washrooms in the Lehigh Centre and at the ball diamond near the start line.

KM Marking

• Every KM is well marked throughout the course for all 3 races except when Ultra runners leave the course to do the 7.8 KM loop 1.5 KM after the half marathon start line (at the 4 way corner go straight on Lakeshore Lodge Road then on the Lakeview Trail - look for the small white flags every 100 metres along your course. At the Ultra turn around at your 3.9 KM mark (at the end of the Lakeview Trail) there will be a table with water, gatorade and a limited number of Gu gels.

Post Run Events

• As you finish enjoy your Recharge with Milk provided by real Prince Edward County Dairy farmers. Please then go to the Rotary Hall for food and complimentary Prince Eddys beers. Your certificate of completion and placing is found on the Race Roster website. Due to ongoing Covid concerns there will be a short award ceremony for 1st through 3rd place finishers in the half and Full thanks to Mizuno and 1st place finishers for the Ultra thanks to Base 31.

The County Marathon Executive wishes you the very best in your run with us! Thank you for participating in our race and sharing in our 20th edition of the races.

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September 14th 2023

Dear Runners;

There are still 10 days of great rates (even better if you are an AthleticsOntario or KRRA member). We are excited because there is actually a chance we will have great weather on the October 1st weekend (the long range forecasts are very positive). We are also excited because Base31 has agreed to provide amazing prizes to our fastest Male and Female in what we are going to call: the Base31 Ultra50. We think tickets to Justin Rutledge November18th are worth the extra 7.8 KM you would have to run to win!

Is this your year to switch to the Base31 Ultra 50?

Also thrilled to have 4 Prince Edward County Firefighters with first response training at the finish line. You will be in good hands!

Cheers
Mark and Lynne

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August 31st 2023

As we close in one one month before race weekend we are delighted to have Mizuno return to The County Marathon as a key sponsor! At our awards ceremony we will be awarding the following amazing Mizuno prizes

½ Marathon (Women/Men)
1st - Rebellion Pro (Carbon) Shoe ($290 value)
2nd- Duffle Bag + Hoodie ($165 value)
3rd- Duffle Bag ($90 value)

Marathon (Women/Men)
1st - Rebellion Pro (Carbon) Shoe ($290 value)
2nd- Duffle Bag + Hoodie ($165 value)
3rd- Duffle Bag ($90 value)

Sincere thanks to this great sports company and to our great friends at Runners Choice Kingston.

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Civic Holiday weekend 2023

Dear Runners;

We are thrilled to be able to have the Dairy Farmers of Prince Edward County back with us for the 18th year! There will be milk at the finish line handed to you by actual County Dairy farmers. They are on our race shirts for a reason!

We expect to have Prince Eddies beer Prince Eddy's Brewing Co. (princeeddys.store) as well - when that is confirmed we will let you know! Can't run our races without this option either!

Also, if you are looking for accommodations, we are pleased to be able to include Places in PEC as a new option. We also recommend the Royal, Home - The Royal Hotel and Sandbanks Vacations Sandbanks Vacations | Explore the County, Your Way.

Cheers and happy running!
Mark and Lynne

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July 26th 2023

Dear Runners;

Hoping your summer is going well.

As we approach October 1st (but not too quickly - summer can linger as long as it wants!) We will be starting to update our instagram page. The main street in front of the Picton Fairgrounds is under construction so you will need to use the back entrance to the fairgrounds. Since photos are worth a 1000 words we will be putting out a series of entries to guide you in to what is :the registration site, bus departure site and post race site.

Meanwhile, if you haven't registered yet, your best rates are as an Athletics Ontario or Kingston Road Runners Association member. Check with your association for the promo codes.

Best of luck with your training, and at anytime feel free to contact us about anything race related - volunteers are particularly welcome to connect with us.

Cheers!
Mark and Lynne

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June 30th 2023

Dear Runners;

With almost exactly 3 months to go we are happy to report that registration is up about 10% The 20th running is having a certain appeal especially to the amazing runners who have braved all of our 19 races - real and virtual!

Although there clearly is a trend away from medals (some races are planting trees) we decided that the 20th running needed a medal - a true keepsake. Final details were concluded today with the order guaranteed to arrive on time. We think it's a great looking item but the first time you see it won't likely be before the finish line!

Our merchandise supplier has informed us that they are having supply issues with the beautiful line of items we had on offer. As a result the link on our website is not working. Hoping to have things sorted out soon - we will let you know when that happens. On a related note, we have been assured our runners' shirts will be waiting for you at registration.

Great rates are in effect for most of the month of July, we also want to sincerely thank our registrants who have donated to our Hospital Building Fund - simply amazing!

Cheers and happy running!
Mark and Lynne

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May 20th 2023

The Kingston Road Runners Association has just approved our becoming part of their 2023 1/2 marathon running series! This is wonderful news for us as it was the KRRA that assisted us in the first days of our development of the County Marathon in the late 1990's!

To be a part of the KRRA calendar, in our 20th running, is huge!

Still days available for our best registration rates! But, as a thank you to the Kingston running community, we will be increasing your incentive to run our races with a larger KRRA discount starting June 1st

Sincerely
Mark and Lynne on behalf of the Marathon Committee

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May 11th 2023

Dear Runners,

We have finally decided on our tech shirts for this year. Fully professionally designed by Surge Activewear (something we have never done before) this year's short sleeved can be quickly thrown on over your usual running gear to celebrate our 20th running!

It is the year to race in this shirt!

Happy running!
Mark and Lynne

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March 31st 2023

Thank you to all of those of you who have already taken advantage of our best rates to register. Special thanks to Laura Westerhof, James Swinnerton and Kim-Ellen Hurst for your generous donations to the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation. It's support like yours that will allow us to make a spring donation for the 2nd year in a row!

We are also so thrilled to be able to offer our first on-line merchandise! Surge Activewear has been our runners kit supplier for 20 years now. We have always had the best quality product from this, our only clothing supplier. Now through their design department we have 6 offerings for you to consider from singlet to hoodie. Check them out at https://surgeactivewear.com/collections/the-county-marathon

We pledge our portion of the funds we receive from sales will go to support our local hospital as it nears its final goals before construction begins!

Not to worry about rates for registration, you still have time before they change! Will we see you at our 20th running this fall?

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March 8th

We count on up to 200 volunteers to make the County Marathon happen every year. Below are the best options for high school students.

The County Marathon - student volunteer options for September 29th, 30th and October 1st 2023 - our 20th running!

Almost all shifts are 4 hours long. All volunteers will get instruction. You will also receive a 2023, 20th running, County Marathon ball cap. We will sign your volunteer sheets at the end of your shifts.

Friday September 29th at the Picton Arena

Set up in the Hall working with experienced Marathon committee members - 2 hours, 6-8 PM, no heavy lifting

Saturday September 30th at the Picton Arena

Assisting with registration - shifts are 9 AM to 1 PM, 1 PM to 5 PM. You will be working with experienced Marathon committee members.

Sunday October 1st starting from the Picton Arena at 8 AM. These are all 4 hour assignments

Race-kit management requires that you ride First Student school buses in teams of at least 4 students. Your job will be to manage runners backpacks. Taking them from runners you will ride back to the Picton Arena and arrange them for easy pick-up post race. There will be a number of trips involved.

Buses will run to the Marathon and 50 KM Ultra start at the Lehigh Centre in Wellington until 8 AM. Buses will also run to the 1/2 Marathon start, corner of County Roads 10 and 18 until 10 AM.

Picton Arena post race support includes, management of post race runner nutrition - setting out drinks and snacks as well as post race clean-up.

Assisting in Road Closure management. Senior students will be assigned low volume road intersections, where your job will be to restrict traffic access to the closed race course. In most instances drivers will be asked to turn around and head back to roads which will be open. You will receive instructions and maps to hand out to drivers. You will be given a high-vis traffic vest to wear that day along with critical phone numbers to call if needed. The OPP will be on course for the entire event with 12-18 officers.

Please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you are interested. We encourage you to apply in teams of at least 2 for each assignment. Thanking you in advance, from the County Marathon Race Committee

January 27th 2023

Dear Runners;

We are back for the 20th time! The County Marathon will be run the weekend of October 1st 2023. Registration and your best rates are now to be found here with registration set to officially open Saturday January 28th.

Wanting to run but want more details?
Wanting to volunteer but afraid of the workload?
Wanting to sponsor one or more of our events?

Contact us anytime at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Cheers and happy running
Mark and Lynne

The following news item was released for publication by the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation

PICTON, November 23, 2022 - Community support racing in from County Marathon participants has resulted in a record-breaking result for our County hospital. Mark Henry, the County Marathons Race Director and Lynne Ellis - Board Chair, presented Barbara McConnell, chairperson of the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation (PECMHF) with $5,500 on Wednesday, November 23 bringing this year's total to $8,000. The funds were donated by marathoners’ and community members who pledged support to the hospital foundation as part of the 2022 race. As with other years, each pledged gift was matched by the Marathon.

“The Prince Edward County Marathon is so pleased to be able to make 2022 our biggest donation year ever,” said Henry and Ellis. “Based on the contributions our runners make, we are committed to matching every dollar our runners put forward. This has resulted in a figure significantly larger than any previous year!”

The County Marathon, Half Marathon and new for 2022 the 50 KM Ultra, are public events open to runners, walkers, and wheeled athletes. The races are Athletics Ontario certified events which allows the marathon to be a Boston Marathon qualifier race. Certification is based on very accurate course measurement and a list of other critical requirements, focussed on runner safety. For the past 19 years this 42.2 km race and 21.1 km race, have taken runners past three lakes, and through three villages while surrounding them with the beautiful autumn colours of Prince Edward County. The County Marathon committee is so grateful that the events have been embraced by the community especially the many volunteers, such, who have made it happen - like Mike and Theresa, every year since 2004.

“Year in and year out, the foundation raises money to purchase medical equipment for our County hospital and to support regional healthcare, and that is vitally important work. It ensures our hospital medical staff continue to have the equipment they need to treat us, their patients, with the excellent care we appreciate so much,” said McConnell. “I am in awe of groups, like the County Marathon committee for their commitment to keeping healthcare in our community strong.”

“I'm very proud to be part of the philanthropic community that supports our County hospital so enthusiastically,” said Shannon Coull, executive director of the PECMH Foundation. “I've witnessed our hospital provide outstanding care to so many in our community. The foundation wants to ensure our healthcare system has the equipment and resources it needs available when illness strikes. It's comforting to know that a great hospital with fine facilities is nearby, equipped to make a difference – all because of donors who care.”

The County Marathon committee has donated over $23,000 to PECMHF and remains committed to supporting the local hospital and community. The County Marathon remains a vibrant community event because of the support it has received from dedicated volunteers, PECI students, businesses, such as The County's dairy farmers, and the municipality through the County Foundation.

“Our success this year can't go without mentioning the Ontario Provincial Police, Prince Edward County staff and facilities, Hastings Prince Edward Emergency Medical Services, Tri and Run Coaching and Doctors Hayward Stewart, and Blanchard all of whom have provided invaluable services in the safe delivery of our events for virtually our entire existence since 2004.” said Ellis. “We are eager to continue to give back to the community by supporting our local hospital with notable individual donations from runners included Lindsay Evans, James Swinnerton, Karamjit Tind, Jason Gugliotta, Kirk Snider, Amy Quilty, and Kaden Snider."

The County Marathon is considering hosting its 20th race on October 1, 2023. The Marathon Committee is actively seeking volunteers for next year’s race. For more information and, ideally, to volunteer email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to raising funds to advance health care for the patients of the hospital and the people of Prince Edward County.

October 3rd 2022

Other than a bit of wind, yesterday wasn't the worst day we have ever had for weather. We just wanted to congratulate all of our participants for making the best of a hurricane inspired head wind that simply didn't let up from the starting gate to the finish line. Results can now be found at https://taptiming.ca/index.php/results . Certificates can be printed through your race roster account and photos are available through Dave Robinetts site http://pasi.shotsee.com/gallery/2022pec

Best to you from
The Marathon Committee and this year's incredible volunteers

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September 24th 2022

Just a week away - hope your training has gone well. We are almost ready to have you come to the County. Below are a few images for you to consider.

1) Our finisher ribbons this year won't include a medal. Instead you will find a weather resistant decal in a plastic sleeve that can either be left there or attached to a vehicle as proof you have run our races. Most of us have finishing medals for a variety of races - they just hang on door knobs etc collecting dust. This year you will have something that will collect dust but at least it will be on your car bumper where everyone can see you are a competitor!

2) Logistics have been a curse this year. Ordering shirts at our usual cutoff time proved impossible. Instead our supplier suggested we offer fanny packs instead. Of comparable cost to us and hopefully with greater value to you our fanny packs should see more use than the 35 shirts you have tucked away from other events.

3) Finally we are so indebted to our volunteers - they have created this event and deliver it year in year out. Look for people wearing white ball caps (as shown but with marathon writing). They know stuff. Ask them.

See you very soon! The weather is looking promising so there is still time to register.

Cheers from the Marathon Committee

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August 29th 2022

Dear Runners;

Hoping your training is going well as we are just over 30 days from our races.

At this time we are so pleased to announce that Prince Edward County's dairy farmers will be meeting you at the finish line with the recharge of chocolate milk you need after a bit of a run across the County. We have valued their involvement for years now - please thank them at the finish line!

We are also pleased to welcome back finish line expertise from Sandy Musson and her team. They will also be at our registration on Saturday October 1st in Picton with an incredible array of items you may just need on Sunday. Plan on visiting them then or at C O N T A C T | Tri & Run Coaching (triandrunsports.com)

Also at the finish line in the arena look for Robin Everhardus and her team from Trillium College Kingston Campus - Trillium College offering massage services and Sam Shepherd from Picton Physio Sam Shepherd, M.Sc. PT | Picton Physiotherapy

Our race is coming together - will we see you at the starting lines October 2nd?

Cheers

Mark and Lynne

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August 9th

Dear Runners;

At long last we have our banner up on the Main Street in Picton. We have construction on the street so we may be using our alternate finish line, however this banner will be up when you come to the County October 2nd.

Also we have mapped our 50 Km Ultra. It runs through arguably the most scenic part of the Sandbanks Park. The route is a double back route so if you missed these scenes running the first 3.9 KM you will see them on the second 3.9 KM

Cheers!
Mark and Lynne

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August 3rd 2022

Dear Runners;

Registration is going well - thank you to those of you who have already completed that step. We now have an instagram site - please follow @thecountymarathon we will be adding photos and updates as we approach October 2nd. We have also set up a strava site Ontario, Canada Club | the county marathon on Strava - please consider joining and sharing your training with us.

Hoping your training is going well - see you October!

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 June 28th 2022

Dear Runners; There is still another month until our next price increase so you have lots of time BUT...we are hearing about a few issues with registration. Race Roster works very well however they suggest a few things will make your registration even smoother. Use Chrome or Safari preferably on a computer versus your phone. If you still have issues make sure your browser history/cache is cleaned out and if all else fails just call them. They will happily register you over the phone at 855.969.5515.

Good luck with that and see you October 2nd!

Cheers!

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May 20

Dear Runners:

Just under a week to get your best rates for our Full, Half, and new this year Ultra!

We are pleased to announce that due to the level of support our registered runners have provided we were able to donate $2500 ($1250 from donations and $1250 in matching funds as has always been our approach) to the Prince Edward County Hospital Foundation today - Friday May 20th 2022.

Sincere thanks to our registered runners!!

On another note we were thrilled to have been approved for key in-kind funding from the County Foundation. Their level of support means a great deal to us as it has proven invaluable in the past.

Sincere thanks to the County Foundation!

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May 15th

Dear Runners;

Our 19th running of the County Marathon is an Athletics Ontario sanctioned event (and part of the Trillium Running Series). We are open for our October 2nd 2022 races.

We are excited about our race offerings now both virtual and in person! As of May 15th we have added a virtual full, half and new this year - a virtual Ultra 50 KM race - which can be run anytime, anywhere between September 15th and October 15th - be a part of the Marathon without having to leave your home!

New this year as of May 15th challenge yourself with a 50 KM Ultra where the additional 7.8 KM are run on scenic trails (details of the route will follow soon!)

In light of the lingering effects of Covid there will be some further changes in the way our water stations and finish line activities will be delivered - more details will follow.

Note: proof of vaccination is no longer required.
If you or your family members wish to volunteer your inquiries will be most welcome at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

April 20th 2022

Dear Runners;

Our 19th running of the County Marathon is an Athletics Ontario sanctioned event (and part of the Trillium Running Series). We are now open for our October 2nd 2022 events. This year's races will be limited to the full and half marathon. We are holding off on the Team Challenge for this year at least. Our routes will remain unchanged however in light of the lingering effects of Covid there will be some further changes in the way our water stations and finish line activities will be delivered - more details will follow.

If you or your family members wish to volunteer your inquiries will be most welcome at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

April 7th 2022

Dear Runners;

We are now open for our 19th running of the County Marathon. This year's races will be limited to the full and half marathon. We are holding off on the Team Challenge for this year at least. Our routes will remain unchanged however in light of the lingering effects of Covid there will be some further changes in the way our water stations and finish line activities will be delivered - details to follow.

We will upload the registration link shortly!

If you or your family members wish to volunteer your inquiries will be most welcome at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

March 15th 2022

Dear Runners;

Thank you so much for the various inquiries that have been coming in almost daily. We are close to our 2022 decision.  Know that this year we anticipate running just the 2 races - The half and full marathon.  Currently we are waiting for a key decision from the County Foundation.  The in-kind resources they underwrite are so very valuable to us but it's actually their endorsement of our event that's more important.  We need the implied backing of this entity to give us the courage to proceed - post(?) pandemic.  We are also still waiting for the Hastings Prince Edward Health Unit to comment on anticipated health management guidelines so we can deliver an event weekend beyond reproach.

As soon as these considered responses are received we will announce what will be possible in 2022.

In the meantime  - keep running!

Cheers

Mark - Race Director and Lynne Chair of the Board - the County Marathon  

 

December 8th 2021

Community support came running in from County Marathon participants who ran virtually this past year. On behalf of the County Marathon committee Mark Henry presented Briar Boyce of the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation with $1,000 on Wednesday, December 8. Almost half the funds were raised by this year's runners - with the committee opting to round up the donation. “The County Marathon has existed for the past 19 years because of the community support it has needed from dedicated volunteers, businesses, such as the County's Dairy farmers, and the County itself. We are so pleased to continue to give back to the community by supporting our local hospital,” said Henry.

Donations like this from the County Marathon ensures we can provide the 40,000 patients seen at Quinte Health Care Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (QHC PECMH) each year with the best care possible. The runners and marathon race committee members have demonstrated their commitment to keeping our hospital well equipped for everyone who lives in or visits our community,” said Briar Boyce, senior development officer of the PECMH Foundation.

The County Marathon Committee looks forward to hosting a race the weekend of October 2nd 2022 - should the pandemic allow. Above and beyond running a safe event for both runners and volunteers, the intent is to run a carbon neutral event (using audited carbon sequestration) - as was the case in 2021. The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation is a charitable organization whose mission is to raise money to advance health care for the patients of the hospital and the people of Prince Edward County.

October 25th 2021

Dear Runners;

Sincere thanks to Kim and Vincent who generously each donated a significant portion to the Prince Edward County Hospital Foundation - thank you and thank you to everyone who donated to this very important cause for Prince Edward County. We will update this page when the presentation is made in mid-November.

Your results are online - well done everyone! If you don't see them please contact us!

Carbon Neutrality and the County Marathon

Our first attempts at actually approaching carbon neutrality began with this year's events. Our goal was to book carbon sequestering of all of the estimated carbon generated to deliver this year's event with the assistance of the 3rd party provider you will see on the back of your shirts. This year, on a per runner basis, it was an expensive time consuming thing to do. Next year, with more runners and more time to accurately assess our collective footprint we hope it will be easier and less expensive per runner than it was this year!

For October 2nd 2022, the carbon our races generate - be it from busing services, ambulances, web usage, volunteers etc., and the carbon you generate getting to the County will be scheduled for permanent removal from the atmosphere using direct air capture ... because its time.

October 18th 2021

Dear Runners;

Sincere thanks to Kim and Vincent who generously each donated a significant portion to the Prince Edward County Hospital Foundation - thank you and thank you to everyone who donated to this very important cause for Prince Edward County.

Your results are online - well done everyone! If you don't see them please contact us!

Today we are sending out this year's tech shirts to everyone who registered for this year's virtual events. Hopefully you will receive yours by the end of the week.

October 3rd 2021

It was raining for the 18th running of the County Marathon. At least 2 runners started the full marathon today on our course starting in Wellington. Both were well equipped for the unsupported race although one of them did not have shoes...always impressive but just a bit unnerving for those of us who like shoes.

At least 2 runners also started our half marathon course starting along the shores of West Lake near the West Lake Community Church - veterans of the race it was good to see them today.

We have had a good virtual sign up this year - it should be our last virtual race (we truly hope). Tech shirts and certificates will be sent out post our last possible date for running this year's race - October 15th. Sincere thanks to all of our registrants and those who donated to the Prince Edward County Hospital Foundation . We expect to donate at least $750 this year - thanks to you.

Registration is expected to start in November for our Sunday October 2nd 2022 running of our 3 classic events. We are excited - please let us know if you would like to help us with what we expect will be one of the first truly fully carbon neutral running events ever (both for the event and our runners) - 3rd party verified details to follow soon... because it's about time!

Cheers
Mark - Race Director and Lynne - Race Coordinator

September 20th 2021

Why people run is driven by so many individual factors. On Saturday the 18th Jeanette completed our marathon on her treadmill in a time of 2.44. The factors that drove her are truly remarkable and inspiring.

Read on then go for that run!

When I was twenty-eight, I was diagnosed for the second time with AML, acute myelogenous leukemia. I had it when I was two and a half but it was quickly put into remission with eight rounds of chemotherapy. But, when it came back when I was twenty-eight, during my last semester at Harvard Law, it was bad… really bad. After February 26th (the day I was diagnosed), even though no one knew at the time, I would never be able to run live races again.

I battled for ten years only weighing fifty-three pounds at one point. I had two bone marrow transplants. I am now left with a severely compromised immune system. I need to live a very careful life. When you get a small cold, I get pneumonia. When people complain about having to wear a mask because of COVID I shake my head because I have been wearing a mask for sixteen years. So, unless there is an Olympics for treadmill running, I will never truly compete with anybody except myself. When the pandemic hit and races went all virtual my husband told me to enter races, knowing that I have missed competition. I played soccer and lacrosse throughout college. I am competitive with everything in life, as my husband always has to say to me “it is not a competition” when trying to pick out the best bananas. HaHa! I treated cancer treatment as a competition, I was never going to quit even when doctor after doctor told me there wasn’t anything left they could do for me.

When I was sick, I never stopped running. I ran on good days, bad days, tired days, sick days. I ran when it hurt. I ran when they told me not to. I ran because in that hour, I felt like myself. I run now because I CAN. Nothing can touch me while I am running. No doctors, no chemo or radiation, no work. I get to be me, strong, my run, my rules. I get to pound the ground (well, treadmill belt) and just BE FAST. Being fast gives me euphoria I have rarely found outside of running. One big exception to that is the love for my husband and family. I am alive and happy because of them. So, not being able to compete in live races is a small sacrifice I will gladly take. I am blessed to be alive and I will do whatever it takes to keep it that way.

Wednesday September 15th

Dear Runners thank you to all of you who have signed up for this year's race. The course is now marked:

1) with a start line in Wellington on Niles Street across from the tennis courts for the full marathon
2) a startline just past 1901 County Road 12 for the half marathon
3) and the finish line in front of the Fairgrounds in Picton

You could run it today ...or any day through October 15th - then send in your results!

We are working on verifiable carbon neutrality for the event with plans to offer verified carbon neutrality for both the event and you for 2022 (because its time). Updates will follow soon.

Lastly this year shirts will be white (a hopeful colour) and we won't run out even if you register as late as October 3rd.

Have an excellent race!

Cheers! (and contact us if you need anything contact us - Mark will be on the course Sunday October 3rd at both start lines at 8 in Wellington and 10 AM at the West Lake location )

June 25th 2021

Dear Runners - Race Roster is open for 2021 virtual race registration. The same rates will apply as last year. The only change is that this year we will provide completion certificates with your exclusive runner's shirts versus a medal (the medal was impacting our postage fees). The route will be open from September 15th until October 15th with start and finish lines marked. 2022 is already our target. Registration will open for our October 2nd 2022 races early November of this year. Contact our new race coordinator Lynne Ellis if there is anything we can help you with.

Cheers

June 6th 2021 

Dear Runners;

It's with a heavy heart we announce this year's race will again be virtual.  The decision was left for as long as possible.  Along with running out of time to properly deliver our races, the decision to not open Ontario public schools until the fall gives a sense that Covid 19 is not going away as soon as all of us had hoped.  Concerns also included a recent Athletics Ontario zoom session which polled attending Race Directors and found the majority were not running their races in 2021.  The decision made by the Toronto Scotiabank Marathon to go virtual and June 15th announcement Montreal was not running their fall race clinched it. 

Registration for the virtual 2021 races will open shortly (within the week of June 21th).  Our rates for running virtually will be the same as last year with event completion mail-outs including our 2021 virtual race shirts and an official certificate of your successful race completion.  

As for the marathon course in the County.  Start and finish lines will be marked.  You will have the entire month of October to race on your own streets or to come down and use the course.  

As for next year:

Our intent is to open 2022 registration this November - we truly look forward to seeing all of you Sunday October 2nd 2022.

Sincerely the County Marathon organizing Committee

May 18th 2021

Thank you for your on-going patience with us. We remain in a holding pattern but have now determined we can't wait beyond the end of May to decide about this year's races. Our intent in the next few days is to find out from the Hastings Prince Edward Health Unit whether our race can meet their protocols. We will then be having a Zoom meeting with our committee (new members still welcome) - We hope to open registration after June 2, "following further updates from Premier Ford" or (sadly) defer to 2022. We hope to open registration by the end of May or (sadly) defer to 2022.

Cheers
Mark and Lynne founders of the County Marathon

April 12th 2021

Dear Runners:

Thank you for your patience with us - thank you also to those of you who have expressed an interest in joining the Committee. We are still in a holding pattern. Contact with other races is helping us make decisions about moving forward with this year's race and how it can happen safely. Our committee will meet soon to discuss how this year will shape up, but of course, as we are all painfully aware Covid-19 is not disappearing as quickly as we had hoped even a month ago. Our target to proceed has now been pushed back to May 1st. Bear with us.

Cheers
Mark and Lynne for the County Marathon

March 21 2021

Happy spring! We are close to our decision about this year's 18th annual race weekend (looking to open registration in early April - if all goes well). Currently we are looking for a few new committee members. If you are interested in assisting in the delivery of Canada's largest small centre marathon - we want to hear from you. Zoom attendance at our monthly meetings is perfectly acceptable!

Looking forward to hearing from you at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The County Marathon organization, and those runners who had hoped to run in 2020, donated a combined total of $2500 to the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital fund today December 23rd 2020. It was our 17th annual donation to this incredibly important facility in the heart of Prince Edward County and at our finish line.

We are seriously looking at this coming October 3rd 2021 our 18th season. We want to make it our best series of races yet. You can be a part of it - even if running is not something you do - it's an amazing thing to be a part of - to deliver a first class sporting event! If you are interested in making this happen please contact Mark and/or Lynne (our Chair) at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

October 16th 2020

Yesterday was the last day to run the County Marathon (although if you run today or tomorrow and submit your times promptly we will accept them) If you haven't sent your results in yet, please send them directly through the Runkeeper app or to us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. as soon as you can.

Thank you to those of you who did run this year - we had about 80 entries. We will be recognizing the fastest times in the full and half as well as the longest distance covered in the 24 hour race with results to be posted here October 20th. October 20th we will also be mailing your finishing medals and tech shirts (they are all black).

Thank you as well to those of you who made a donation to the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation. We will be presenting the cheque to them, on your behalf, in the next month.

Finally, we are looking forward to 2021 with our race date planned for October 3rd. If you are interested in volunteering at the Committee level please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

October 4th 2020

It ended up being an uncharacteristically nice day for the 17th running of the County Marathon - go figure. We had at least 3 full marathoners and 2 half marathoners actually on the course on race day! (pictures attached - plus proof it was a lovely day for fall colours). It was brilliant of them to run here Sunday!

Under 100 runners registered this year - with registration now closed. Over the past number of days we have had runners sending in completed races from Ottawa, Vancouver Island and London England all backed by GPS screen shots, Tom Tom and Strava links as well as those runners uploading automatically with RunKeeper. You can also send whatever time keeper evidence you have to me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . We will do what we can with whatever evidence you have.
Our black long sleeved tech shirts, black ribboned finishers medals and your placing will be mailed out after the last possible day to run our race - October 15th.

So hoping we can be back to racing the County Sunday October 3rd 2021.

Happy running!

 

September 16th 2020

Dear County Marathon, Half Marathon runners and 24 hour runners.

Our routes have their start lines and finish lines marked on the actual roads we use every year (except this one). You can run the actual routes between now and October 15th to complete the Half or Full County Marathon 2020. They are uploaded on RunKeeper as the following:

Full Marathon route starting on Niles Street in Wellington
When you log on to Runkeeper you can add our route. It is route/5112191

Half Marathon route starting just past the junction of CR 18 and CR 12 (close to the Meeting House https://www.themeetinghouse.com/sandbanks)
When you log on to Runkeeper you can add our route. It is route/5112193

We will be notifying the local papers and our local radio station FM99.3 to let them know you may be running our routes sometime between now and October 15th...but still...do take care and good luck!!
Of course if you are doing our virtual 24 hour options on your own or as a team - good luck and please take care!

Results will be posted after October 15th 2020. Your tech shirts and medals (to those who request them) will also be sent out after October 15th.

Cheers!
Mark and Lynne - Original event developers and your race organizers for 2020

September 8th 2020

'Dear Runners - we are now within a month to our official race date and just a week before you can start running your virtual race. The courses in the County will be marked by the 25th of September - but do remember even on October 4th we will not have any closures in place - you will be on your own with your Runkeeper app.

Just a bit of inspiration we have Jo-Anne running for Alzheimer Research. You may want to join her at https://on.alz.to/site/TR/ASiO_DIY_TR/ASiO_DIY_TR?px=1425949&pg=personal&fr_id=1130

Cheers and happy running - PS this year's long sleeved tech shirts and our medal ribbons (medals available on request only) will both be black'

 Released June 1st 2020

Dear Runners:  The County Marathon has always taken great pride in how we manage our races.  Over our 16 years of races we have had what we believe to have been an admirable safety record.  After careful review of our options for 2020 we have decided we simply can not guarantee the same level safety for our participants and volunteers as all of us have come to expect.  As a result there will be no actual events here on the October 4th 2020 weekend.  For 2020, for those runners who have already booked (or would like to), we will be offering postponement and/or virtual options for our various events.

Dear Runners  - sorry about my slow updates about our 2020 races.  

We are offering a virtual Full and Half Marathon at $45 per runner.  For the first time we are also offering two new options.  The question you will answer by entering either one of these new races is just how far you can run in a single 24 hour period...or if you are a team, just how far can your team run in a single 24 hour period.  These events are both priced at $45 per runner.

The bonus of virtual racing is that you will have from September 15th to October 15th of this year to run your race - so you might want to choose a better day than we normally offer for our races (such as one that it isn't raining or cold or windy).  You can start at any time (maybe you are not a morning person).  

The County Marathon and half marathon courses will be marked by September 15th so if you wish, you can actually run on our routes (without our support on the course - do stay on the shoulder as the roads will not be closed).  If you are running the 24 hour race please find a safe place to do it - such as a local track - (you may need to get permission).

RunKeeper is the app RaceRoster has selected as the main recording tool.  I use Strava so will need to send in a screen shot to have my run verified.  Good luck with your race!

As a final note, all runners will receive a real (not virtual) tech shirt mailed to you.  We are very excited about what Lisa and Kailey come up with for this year - details will follow.  Also please email us to let us know if you want a finishers medal as we are only sending them to runners who request them.

Dear Runners - after 16 years of successful race weekends we happy to announce we are open, as of 6 PM March 2nd 2020, for our October 4th 2020 race. Please feel free to contact Mark Henry - Race Director at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Top 9 Reasons to run The County Marathon

1. The course is fast, slightly rolling, according to Peter Pimm, and beautiful with a full road closure
2. Almost no paper in our race kits, but you will get a reusable bag, a long sleeve race shirt, and a few other goodies!
3. At the finish line Prince Edward Dairy Producers will help you "Recharge" with a complimentary chocolate milk - the best way to recharge after a race in the County.
4. Then one of our local brewery's will help you celebrate your achievement with a complimentary beer! No Kidding!
5. This is wine country - come early and do a wine tour of some of our 40 wineries
6. You and your family matter to us! We have 13 circulating buses that will escort all participants to the start line. Your family can join you on the ride and circulate throughout the day to watch your progress for only $5/person (tickets available at registration)
7. The finish line is steps away to our local hospital and we have a world class medical team ready to serve you
8. Every participant is important to us and our finish line crew, from Fitness Powers, will place a medal around the neck of every finisher
9. The residents of Prince Edward County are proud of each of you and will cheer you along the route to help you reach a personal best.

Special thanks to long time supporter Re/Max Quinte Ltd.

Run For A Charity

Do you have a charity that you want to run for? There is no greater way to conquer your 42.2km or 21.1km journey then to be doing it for a worthwhile cause. We want to hear from you – Sign Up to participate then email Tracy at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with your charity and link to where donations can be made.