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Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon Freedom First Marathon Relay
April 22, 2023
Roanoke, VA, 24011, US
The Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon Series has earned its title as “America’s Toughest Road Marathon†by challenging runners with over 7,430 ft. in elevation change, more than any other road marathon in the U.S.  This race is the ONLY marathon that runs along the famously scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and proceeds from this non-profit event benefit the parkway and a dozen local charities every year.  The full, half, relay and 10k all prove equally challenging yet rewarding on this mountainous course, and all runners are rewarded with a unique finishers’ medals, shirts and local craft beer at the festival-like finish in downtown Roanoke. For those who need even more than just extreme elevation change can run the course twice with the official Blue Ridge Double (sells out annually).
This race would not be possible without the support of our title sponsor, Foot Levelers.
This event is owned and operated by the Roanoke Outside Foundation whose mission to make outdoor activity and environmental stewardship a core component of our community’s lifestyle by promoting a “conservation through recreation†philosophy.
The Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon Freedom First Marathon Relay, held annually in Roanoke, VA on April 22nd, 2023, is a unique and challenging event that forms part of the larger Blue Ridge Marathon, known as "America's Toughest Road Marathon." This relay race offers participants the opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway without committing to the full marathon distance. Expect a demanding course characterized by significant elevation changes and a true mountain running experience. Participants in the Marathon Relay can anticipate a race that tests their endurance and climbing prowess. The terrain is predominantly paved road, but it's far from flat. Runners will encounter steep, sustained climbs as they ascend onto the Blue Ridge Parkway, followed by technical descents. The iconic feature of this event is undoubtedly the elevation gain and loss, making it a distinctive challenge compared to most road marathons. The picturesque backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains provides a stunning, albeit challenging, race environment, and the relay format allows teams to share in both the struggle and the triumph of conquering this demanding course.
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