Leave the city behind for an island getaway, and run the 16th Annual Whidbey Island Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K or 1K kids run on April 23. Just 30 miles north of Seattle, nestled between the Olympic Peninsula and the I-5 corridor of Western Washington, Whidbey Island is perfect for a Pacific Northwest destination vacation. With picturesque ocean views and tranquil farmland, the full marathon and half marathon courses range from scenic country back roads to waterfront coastlines, and snow-capped mountains to rolling hills.
As a Boston-qualifier, the marathon courses takes runners from point-to-point. Begin by crossing one of the wonders of the Pacific Northwest, Deception Pass Bridge, which stands over 180 feet above the water below. Weaving from the edge of the island with views of Skagit Bay, to quaint neighborhoods closer inland, runners will be treated to an ideal Pacific Northwest race course. The finish sits in the heart of downtown Oak Harbor, and all those who cross the finish line will receive a finisher’s medal.
Every year, the City of Oak Harbor hosts the Whidbey Island Marathon to encourage runners to visit their beautiful island. As a supportive community, the City thrives during events like the Whidbey Island Marathon, keeping spectators, volunteers and participants focused on health and wellness. The community creates a fun experience that runners will be able to share with their friends and family, all while enjoying the scenic beauty of Whidbey Island and the City of Oak Harbor.
Whidbey Island Marathon is also part of The Salish Road Race Series which was created to reward participants who finish three of the following events: Whidbey Island Marathon, Capital City Marathon, North Olympic Discovery Marathon and Bellingham Bay Marathon. If you need a few more reasons to put some races on your calendar this year, then this is your opportunity.
Not only will entrants receive discounts when registering for more than one of these races, but participants who cross the finish line of three out the four events will receive a commemorative medal, as well as Salish Sea Road Race Series apparel (previous years have included hats and beanies). Runners who finish three of these events will automatically be entered.
While the Whidbey Island Marathon race courses offer a few hills, the spring weather, ocean views and quiet country roads make up for any extra elevation gain. Not only will runners get an island tour, but they’ll find aid stations every two miles stocked with gels and energy drinks, visible course markings, and a festive post-race spread awaits with food and drinks after crossing the finish line. Time to add this race to your bucket list.
To register, visit runwhidbey.com.