Baldy Mountain Resort is hosting its first annual marathon on Oct.1.
The Baldy Marathon will welcome more than 1,500 runners for a full marathon, kids run, 10-kilometre and 20-km distance with registration opening on April 7.
“The Baldy Marathon will be like no other event in the world. The race will start and finish at the Festival of the Grape; bringing a big celebration feeling to the start/finish area. It will be held at the trails and paths following the Okanagan River, and most importantly will bring a prestigious marathon to the region,” said Baldy Mountain Investor, Victor Tsao.
The event will have a unique long table dinner held at Baldy Mountain Resort in addition to free chairlift rides and live music at the resort over the weekend.
“While the Okanagan region is a special place, our people make it even more exceptional — the sponsors and attendees of this event exemplify the generosity of our communities and its commitment to our natural landscape and strive to embody through the Baldy Marathon. I’m especially grateful for the support of Baldy Mountain Resort in launching this premiere marathon event,” said event organizer, Stephanie O’Brien.
The course is set at the same location as the Festival of the Grape in Oliver. The 10K and 20K runners will turn around at designated points and the full marathoners will run to Osoyoos Lake and back. The finish area will feature booths from 50-plus local wineries, family-friendly events, and a commemorative finisher’s medal. The event will also coincide with the start of the Chinese National Festival (Oct. 1-10) and will strive to: foster understanding of, and connection to, the areas natural and cultural heritage; minimize natural impacts of the event on other area visitors; ensure public safety – for people associated with the event and all residents and tourists and involve and respect the local community.