Marathon in Burlington sees just under five thousand runners this year

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - The Vermont City Marathon has been one of Burlington’s most iconic attractions since 1989. And this Memorial Day weekend it returned as thousands of runners, volunteers, and spectators from across our area gathered for the largest sporting event in the state.

The Vermont City Marathon started with a bang Sunday with just under five thousand runners and bringing hundreds of people to the streets of Burlington. The day was jam-packed with something for everyone. There was a half marathon for hand cyclers, a two-person and five-person relay, and of course, the 13.1-Mile loop ran twice around Burlington.

The marathon attracted hundreds of people from different states to the area. Lilly Cordner traveled from Providence, Rhode Island, for her first marathon. “I know a bunch of people who have done it before. They have all said it was a beautiful course, so I am really excited to get out there and run. I heard there’s a hill around mile five and then again around mile 18. So, doing that twice, I am not really excited for but we will get through it,” said Cordner.

Organizers say this is a big event for the community with nearly 4,500 people gathering around the streets cheering with signs and bells. all waiting to see their runners pass by.

Casey Jones from Hartford, New York, was cheering on her husband. “Oh, I would never miss this. I like to support everybody. I think if you have a good team of people behind you, you can accomplish anything. We have the whole family here today, and we’re really excited,” she said.

Folks that make an effort to support runners every year say they are glad that the race is back. “I think after the last few years we’ve had. This is a purpose and a great event to come together and support each other,” said Melissa West of Vergennes.

“The marathon is one of the great events that happens over the course of the year. It’s become a great tradition, 34 years now we have been doing this. It unites the city, brings everybody out. Almost every neighborhood sees the runners come through one way or another. It’s important economically,” said Burlington Mayor Miro Weinberger.

And the winner of the women’s division, Maegan Krifchin, says the course has its challenges. “You’re always going to feel tired that second lap, especially in those later miles after like 15 or so. Then, running up a pretty substantial hill from 19.5 and 20 in change is a rough spot. After you get up to the top you’re like, ‘Hey, it’s pretty much all downhill from here, let’s do it,’” Krifchin said.

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