Participants will leave Saturday’s Akron Marathon with their arms filled and, in some cases, their wallets a little thicker. Here’s the rundown on the prizes and goodies:
Marathon
The fastest man and woman get $2,000 each. Second through fifth places get $1,000; $500, $250 and $100, respectively.
Masters men and women division leaders: $1,000. Second gets $500; third gets $250.
In addition, cumulative cash incentives are awarded to runners who put on the speed.
Men who complete the course in under 2 hours, 22 minutes get $500; another $500 for coming in under 2:20; and $500 if they break the course record of 2:18:48.
Women who complete the course in 2:45 get $500; another $500 if under 2:42; and $500 for breaking the record of 2:39:09.
Among those in the masters division (runners over 40 years of age), there is a $500 reward for breaking the men’s course record of 2:29:13 and the women’s course record of 2:49:52.
Half-marathon
There are first-, second- and third-place trophies for men and women, as well as for both masters divisions.
Relay teams
Trophies are awarded for first, second and third place in the men’s, women’s and mixed divisions, as well as in those divisions in the masters group.
Age-group awards
In the marathon and half-marathon, the top five male and female finishers in 12 different age categories receive recognition awards.
Goodies for all
Every participant in the marathon, half-marathon, relay race and Kids Fun Run receives a medallion, T-shirt and goodie bag. The bags include tickets or discount coupons for things like Akron Aeros and Cleveland Cavaliers games, select performances at Akron Civic Theatre and Quicken Loans Arena, and the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
Adult participants also get a subscription to Running Times, a nylon backpack and a V.I.P Runner Rewards card offering year-round discounts on everything from area restaurants to sporting events to retail stores.
In addition, all full marathoners receive a Brooks Official Akron Marathon Essential Run jacket; half-marathon runners get a Brooks long-sleeve technical shirt; relay runners a Brooks short-sleeve technical shirt.
Loyalty rewards
For the first time, a program will recognize runners who return to Akron regularly. More than 200 runners who are competing in at least their fifth Akron Marathon were invited to a pinning ceremony.
In the future, 10-year, 15-year and 20-year veterans will get special benefits, from perhaps a signature watch to free race entry for life.
Freebies at Expo
Compile your own goodie bag today by visiting the Health and Fitness Expo at downtown Akron’s John S. Knight Center. More than 80 vendors will be on hand from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with many of them giving away products.
