By WESLIE STRATTON
Moapa Valley Progress
The 2014 Valley of Fire Marathon is set to take place on Saturday, Nov. 22 with start and finish at the Valley of Fire State Park Visitor Center.
This annual race has previously drawn participants from all over the United States and internationally to the Moapa Valley community.
According to the event planner, Planet Ultra website, “the half marathon route is an out-and-back course, with a little dog-leg to add mileage, up the scenic drive in the middle of the park.”
The from the visitor’s center to White Dome road will be closed to traffic for at least the first three hours of the race.
“This is a super tough route with lots of hills, both steep and rolling,” the site reports. “Come prepared for a challenge with spectacular views.”
Total elevation gained is just under 1,500 feet. The route is touted as the most incredible scenery that participants will ever encounter on a half marathon along with a “fun party atmosphere” with music at the finish line.
According to the site, there will be aid stations approximately every other mile beginning at mile two that will be stocked with a fun variety of snacks and goodies. Every other aid station will feature Hammer Nutrition HEED and Hammer Gel.
A portion of each runner entry fee will be donated to charity.
Awards will be given to overall male and female winners along with the top male and female finisher in each age division. Divisions include 18 and under, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60+ for both men and women.
Participant packet pickup will be 5:30-6:45 a.m. the day of the race at the visitor center parking lot with start time at 7 a.m.
Those interested in participating in the event can register at http://runplanetultra.com/valley-of-fire-half/. All spectators are welcome.
