Maple Leaf Half Marathon

The Maple Leaf Half Marathon returned to Manchester and the mountains of southwestern Vermont in 2010, and runs again in the late summer of 2013. Starting from its first running in the late 1970s, the Maple Leaf steadily grew in stature and appeal, attracting world-class athletes and crowds of more than 1,300 runners as summer is giving way to fall each year. Begun by local restaurateur Guy Thomas (Zoey's), the Maple Leaf in past years was a well-known race across the country and was seen as a tune-up for the New York Marathon. In time, the race was organized by a number of other individuals and groups, but faded from the local scene a few years ago. The race now is dedicated to the memory of Jay Hathaway, the former organizer of the Maple Leaf race who passed away in 2009. Now, the Manchester & the Mountains Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Battenkill Valley Runners, Stratton Mountain, and the Manchester Lions Club have forces to revive this major running attraction to our fall calendar of events. Together, our goal is to revive the race to its former glory, making Manchester the center of New England's running interest every September and return the Maple Leaf to its status as a first-class event. Featuring a course that's open to both runners and walkers, the Maple Leaf Half Marathon starts at the Manchester Parks and Recreation Center, from which the route snakes its way along backcountry roads, over to Vermont Route 7 and then back to the Recreation Center for the finish. At the same time, there will be a 5K run/walk for both runners and walkers on a separate course. A celebration will be held with food and beverages, music and an awards ceremony immediately following the races. Any profits from the day's events will go toward funding Manchester Lions' charities in the Northshire. Organizers plan to limit the number of entrants to 1,000 for both races combined, so runners are encouraged to sign up as early as possible.

Featuring a course that's open to both runners and walkers, the Maple Leaf Half Marathon starts at the Manchester Parks and Recreation Center, from which the route snakes its way along backcountry roads, over to Vermont Route 7 and then back to the Recreation Center for the finish. At the same time, there will be a 5K run/walk for both runners and walkers on a separate course.

The Maple Leaf Half Marathon and Kotler 5K will be run on Saturday, September 7, 2019 in beautiful Manchester, Vermont, a vibrant region with much to offer. Organization is excellent, and the course is scenic and enjoyable. There is something for everyone in this rural Vermont tour. It’s one of those “must do” New England races. Manchester, Vermont is a year-round sports, recreation, foodie and shopping destination in the heart of the Green Mountain National Forest.