Towpath Marathon Race Day October 7, 2018

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS & VITAL INFO

Race Day
Where to Park & Spectator Locations
Course Descriptions & Maps
Aid Stations
Important Things to Note
Frequently Asked Questions

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Towpath Marathon

The conclusion of the Towpath Trilogy

Featuring marathon, half marathon & 10K race lengths

Race Day

Sunday, October 7th 2018, 8:00 AM.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
1556 Boston Mills Road, Penninula, OH 44264 (Google Maps directions)

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Parking

Marathon Runners are to park at the Boston Mills Ski Resort Parking Lot.
7100 Riverview Rd. Peninsula, OH (Google Maps directions).

Marathon Walkers are to park at Boston Mills Ski Resort Parking Lot.
7100 Riverview Rd. Peninsula (Google Maps directions)

Half Marathon Runners are to park at the Brandywine Ski Resort Parking Lot.
1146 W Highland Rd Northfield, OH 44067 (Google Maps directions)

Half-Marathon Walkers are to park at Boston Mills Ski Resort Parking Lot.
7100 Riverview Rd. Peninsula (Google Maps directions)

10K Runners are to park at Boston Mills Ski Resort Parking Lot.
7100 Riverview Rd. Peninsula (Google Maps directions)

Parking Notes

1. Runners must be on site, in the parking lot for the race by 7:00 AM. Roads will close promptly at 7:00 AM.
2. We have limited parking, please carpool when possible.
3. Do not park your car on streets near Boston Store- it will be towed.
4. DO NOT enter parking areas if you are dropping someone off. Drop them on the street as you will not be able to exit lot until after 9:00 AM.

Shuttle Service

• The bus shuttle service runs from the Boston Mills parking area to the Brandywine parking lot from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• We do not provide bus shuttle service to the start lines unless you’re staying at a host hotel. Runners are responsible for getting themselves to the start line

Spectator Locations

Station Road (Full and Half-marathon length):

Station Road is the marathon length turnaround. Half-marathon length runners will pass through the area twice.

Park at the Station Road Trailhead (Google Maps directions)

From North or South: Take I-77; exit onto Rt 82 (exit # 149) – east. Turn east, past Rt. 21 and enter Cleveland Metroparks Parkway to Riverview Road. Cross road into Station Road Bridge parking area.

 

Boston Store (All lengths):

Boston Store is the finish line for all three Towpath Marathon race lengths. Marathon length runners will pass through three times.

Park in the Boston Mills Ski Resort parking lot (Google Maps directions).

From the south: Take I-77; exit onto Rt 21 (exit # 145). Prepare to turn right (east) onto Boston Mills Rd. Turn left (north) onto Black Rd. for short trip over bridge; then turn right (east) back onto Boston Mills Rd. Drive down, to Riverview Rd. Turn left and prepare to take a quick left into the Boston Mills Ski Resort Parking Lot.

From the north: Take I-77; exit at the Miller Rd. exit (exit #147) – head east (left); turn south (right) on Rt. 21; turn left on Snowville Road – drive to bottom of hill; turn right (south) on Riverview Road. About a mile and a half on your right, turn right into the Boston Mills Ski Resort parking area.

 

Village of Peninsula, Lock 29 (Marathon length only):

Marathon runners will pass through Lock 29 twice.

Park at the Lock 29 Trailhead (Google Maps directions).

From the south: Take I-77; exit at the Richfield exit (exit # 143) Wheatley Rd./176. After exiting from I-77, drive east on Wheatley Rd. until it dead ends on Riverview. Turn left and drive north towards Peninsula. Turn right onto Rt 303 and park in the CVNP trailhead parking.

From the north: Take I-77; exit at the Miller Rd. exit (exit # 147) – head west (left); turn south (right) on Rt. 21; turn left (west) on Rt. 303 – park in the CVNP trailhead parking

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Towpath Marathon Course Descriptions

Towpath Marathon, Marathon Course Description

Marathon Runners are to park at the Boston Mills Ski Resort Parking Lot (Google Maps directions). Marathon race course includes mile markers and directional signs for your convenience. Water stations and portalets are identified. Marathon signs are white with black letters.

• Marathon Run starts at 8:00 AM.
• Runners will begin on Riverview Rd. north of the Boston Mills Ski Resort.
• Run south on Riverview Rd. to Boston Mills Rd.
• Run east (turn left) on Boston Mills Rd. and enter the Towpath Trail heading South.
• Run south (turn right) onto the Towpath Trail to the southern turnaround point just past the Ira Rd. and Riverview Rd. Turnaround is located just 50 ft. past the southern turn around water station. It is marked as a turnaround (white sign, black letters). Look for the cone.
• Turn around and run north on the Trail (you will pass the finish area).
• Keep running north to the northern turnaround at Station Rd. Bridge.
• Runners will run counter clockwise around the natural turn around located just south of the station road bridge. Again, follow directional signs (white sign, black letters).
• Turn around and run South on the Towpath to the FINISH at the Boston Store.
• The finish line is located off the trail in the parking lot for the Boston Store. Runners will follow the barricade chute bearing right from the trail.

 

Frequently Asked Questions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Races

How can I register?

Register for the race online by selecting REGISTER NOW/TOWPATH MARATHON  or feel free to print out the mail in registration  form available under the link  for your desired race.

Mail to:

PO Box 609420
Cleveland, OH 44109

OR fax to 216-520-1833

If you have further questions or concerns on registration, please feel free to email kcole@canalwaypartners.com

After that point, the only registrations accepted will be at the expo, if spaces are available.

 

PACKET PICKUP

Where and when can I pick up my packet?

You have the option of picking up packets at the race expo, or with a $10 fee, you are able to have your packet mailed to you.

Please make sure to check the dates so that you are registered in time to be eligible for a mail out should you chose that option.

The Expo for the Towpath Marathon will be held at Boston Mills Ski Resort Friday October 5th from 3:00pm-7:00pm or Saturday October 6th from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

7100 Riverview Rd, Peninsula, OH 44264

 

COURSE

Is the course flat?

YES. The course is VERY flat.

What is the surface?

The majority of the Towpath Marathon is run on the Towpath Trail which is comprised of a firmly packed, crushed limestone which is very easy on the joints.

The majority of the Towpath Half Marathon is also run on the Towpath Trail.

The 10K is a split of asphalt and Towpath Trail.

Is the course a Boston Marathon Qualifier?

Yes. The code is: OH 07043 PR

Will any roads be closed?

Yes., each race is different please refer to the appropriate race page.  Generally, the roads close an hour before the start of each race.

Is every mile marked along the course?

Yes, we have several race divisions.  Please see below for your course markers:

The Towpath Marathon is marked with black and white signage and the Towpath Half Marathon is marked with yellow signs red letters.  The 10k is marked with blue signs and white letters.

How long is the course open?

The course will be supported with aid stations for 6 hours, from 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM.  We cannot guarantee road closures or staffed aid stations past this time. This means that runners finishing the race in over 6 hours (or running slower than 13 minute mile) will not have support for the time over 6 hours (or past 2:00 PM).  If you are concerned that you may not finish within 6 hours, you may want to consider an early start.  See question below.

Can I walk the course?  Can I start early?

We welcome walkers and encourage them to take advantage of our 7:00 AM start time (full and half) to ensure that they finish within the allotted time.  We do not offer a Walker’s Division and find that runners tend to do a walk/run combo if they desire.

Walkers for the full and half will both start at 7:00 AM have a separate start line at mile one on the Towpath Trail just South of Boston Store.  Walkers can park at Boston Mills Ski Resort and there is less than a 1/4 mile walk to your start line.  Be careful as it will be dark walking to your start line and we recommend bringing water as your first early morning water stop may not be set up yet.

AWARDS

What are the age groups and who is eligible?

1st, 2nd and 3rd Place Overall Male & Female (Marathon and Half Marathon)

Top Master Male & Female (Marathon and Half Marathon)

1st, 2nd and 3rd Place Male & Female in the following age groups:
19 and under, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-99 (Marathon and Half Marathon)

 

AMENITIES AND SERVICES

What do runners get?

Each runner will get a goody bag if they attend the weekend expo. All marathoners will receive a long-sleeved technical shirt and half marathoners and 10K runners will receive a short-sleeved technical shirt. Full and half marathoners receive finishers medals. There will be food available at no cost to runners only.

Is there food provided for spectators?

Food and beverages are available for purchase for spectators at Trail Mix store near the finish line.

Are there any other amenities?

At the Towpath Village, marathoners will have access to massage therapists, food, live music and a cash beer garden – from our region’s own Great Lakes! There is also a kids area, where we will have crafts, entertainment and an inflatable slide. Please do not leave your children unattended.

 

WHAT ARE THE RECOMMENDED SPECTATOR LOCATIONS?

Station Road:

From North or South: Take I-77; exit onto Rt 82 (exit # 149) – east. Turn east, past Rt. 21 and enter Cleveland Metroparks Parkway to Riverview Road. Cross road into Station Road Bridge parking area.

 

Boston Store:

Park in the Boston Mills Ski Resort Parking lot:

From the south: take I-77; exit onto Rt 21 (exit # 145). Prepare to turn right (east) onto Boston Mills Rd. Turn left (north) onto Black Rd. for short trip over bridge; then turn right (east) back onto Boston Mills Rd. Drive down, to Riverview Rd. Turn left and prepare to take a quick left into the Boston Mills Ski Resort Parking Lot.

From the north – Take I-77; exit at the Miller Rd. exit (exit #147) – head east (left); turn south (right) on Rt. 21; turn left on Snowville Road – drive to bottom of hill; turn right (south) on Riverview Road. About a mile and a half on your right, turn right into the Boston Mills Ski Resort parking area.

Village of Peninsula:

From the south: take I-77; exit at the Richfield exit (exit # 143) Wheatley Rd./176. After exiting from I-77, drive east on Wheatley Rd. until it dead ends on Riverview. Turn left and drive north towards Peninsula. Turn right onto Rt 303 and park in the CVNP trailhead parking.
From the north – Take I-77; exit at the Miller Rd. exit (exit # 147) – head west (left); turn south (right) on Rt. 21; turn left (west) on Rt. 303 – park in the CVNP trailhead parking
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MISCELLANEOUS

Are headphones permitted?

Yes. Please be mindful of other runners while wearing them, though!

Will there be a bag drop?

Yes. There will be a volunteer at the start lines with duct tape and a marker.  Please write your bib number on the duct tape and place on your bag.  The bags will be placed in front of the barn near the  finish area.  We are not responsible for lost/stolen items, but the bags will be watched.  Changing tents are available between the MD Garage and Boston Store Visitor Center.

Where and when will the results be posted?

Results will be posted on our website within 24 hours, if not earlier.

PARKING

Where can I park if I am running or a spectator?

Parking

Marathon Runners are to park at the Boston Mills Ski Resort Parking Lot.
7100 Riverview Rd. Peninsula, OH (Google Maps directions).

Marathon Walkers are to park at Boston Mills Ski Resort Parking Lot.
7100 Riverview Rd. Peninsula (Google Maps directions)

Half Marathon Runners are to park at the Brandywine Ski Resort Parking Lot.
1146 W Highland Rd Northfield, OH 44067 (Google Maps directions)

Half-Marathon Walkers are to park at Boston Mills Ski Resort Parking Lot.
7100 Riverview Rd. Peninsula (Google Maps directions)

10K Runners are to park at Boston Mills Ski Resort Parking Lot.
7100 Riverview Rd. Peninsula (Google Maps directions)

Parking Notes

1. Runners must be on site, in the parking lot for the race by 7:00 AM. Roads will close promptly at 7.
2. We have limited parking, please carpool when possible.
3. Do not park your car on streets near Boston Store- it will be towed.
4. DO NOT enter parking areas if you are dropping someone off. Drop them on the street as you will not be able to exit lot until after 9:00 AM.

Shuttle Service

• The bus shuttle service runs from the Boston Mills parking area to the Brandywine parking lot from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• We do not provide bus shuttle service to the start lines unless you’re staying at a host hotel. Runners are responsible for getting themselves to the start line

Spectator Locations

Station Road (Full and Half-marathon length):

Station Road is the marathon length turnaround. Half-marathon length runners will pass through the area twice.

Park at the Station Road Trailhead (Google Maps directions)

From North or South: Take I-77; exit onto Rt 82 (exit # 149) – east. Turn east, past Rt. 21 and enter Cleveland Metroparks Parkway to Riverview Road. Cross road into Station Road Bridge parking area.

 

Boston Store (All lengths):

Boston Store is the finish line for all three Towpath Marathon race lengths. Marathon length runners will pass through three times.

Park in the Boston Mills Ski Resort parking lot (Google Maps directions).

From the south: Take I-77; exit onto Rt 21 (exit # 145). Prepare to turn right (east) onto Boston Mills Rd. Turn left (north) onto Black Rd. for short trip over bridge; then turn right (east) back onto Boston Mills Rd. Drive down, to Riverview Rd. Turn left and prepare to take a quick left into the Boston Mills Ski Resort Parking Lot.

From the north: Take I-77; exit at the Miller Rd. exit (exit #147) – head east (left); turn south (right) on Rt. 21; turn left on Snowville Road – drive to bottom of hill; turn right (south) on Riverview Road. About a mile and a half on your right, turn right into the Boston Mills Ski Resort parking area.

 

Village of Peninsula, Lock 29 (Marathon length only):

Marathon runners will pass through Lock 29 twice.

Park at the Lock 29 Trailhead (Google Maps directions).

From the south: Take I-77; exit at the Richfield exit (exit # 143) Wheatley Rd./176. After exiting from I-77, drive east on Wheatley Rd. until it dead ends on Riverview. Turn left and drive north towards Peninsula. Turn right onto Rt 303 and park in the CVNP trailhead parking.

From the north: Take I-77; exit at the Miller Rd. exit (exit # 147) – head west (left); turn south (right) on Rt. 21; turn left (west) on Rt. 303 – park in the CVNP trailhead parking

 

 

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