Fox Valley Marathon a great way to see scenic views
There are many ways to experience the beauty of Fox Valley and about 2,500 runners got to experience it recently by racing to the finish line through charming historic communities!
The Fox Valley Marathon offers a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere for both experienced and new runners alike. The Sept. 17 race began and ended in downtown St. Charles, winding through Geneva, Batavia and North Aurora with a finish across the Fox River. Participants could choose to run a Half Marathon or the Fall Final 20 and Fox Valley 5K. Race Director Craig Bixler said this year's event included about 2,500 runners from 28 states, the District of Columbia and Mexico. In existence since 2010, the races often help runners prepare for events in larger cities, including the Chicago and Boston marathons.
"Fall is prime race season for runners, and the races are timed to kick off fall and include a 20-mile 'dress rehearsal' distance for those who will be participating in Chicago's big 40,000 runner marathon," Bixler said. "The river trails that run right through our downtowns, something that we enjoy year-round, are a unique venue that runners from elsewhere have not experienced and that draw them and their friends back year after year."
Bixler said the event began with about 1,000 runners, evolving through the years to include a fundraising component to raise money for local charities and a health and fitness expo. New this year is an Ageless Award to celebrate the oldest over-75 finisher of each race.
In addition to helping raise money for local charities, Bixler said the Fox Valley Marathon draws business revenue and new visitors to the area. The event is made possible through generous sponsors, including Gerald Subaru of North Aurora.
"Gerald Subaru of North Aurora has grown with the event since 2015 and is a major player in helping the event constantly improve to meet the wants and needs of the runners," Bixler said. "They seem well woven into the fabric of the area communities and have some great ideas for the races based on that experience. They showcase vehicles both within race village and by helping runners who need a shuttle back to the finish, and the Gerald Subaru Photo booth in Race Village is always a big draw for runners commemorating their accomplishments and sharing them with friends on social media."
Donna Lawler of Gerald Subaru of North Aurora said Gerald is excited to be part of the Fox Valley Marathon each year.
"This is a wonderful event that encourages people to stay active while having fun in the community," Lawler said. "We look forward to sponsoring this event each year!"
To learn more about the Fox Valley Marathon, visit www.fv26.com. To learn more about Gerald Subaru of North Aurora, visit www.geraldsubarunorthaurora.com.