Does the County Marathon need volunteers this year? What kinds of positions are available ?

We are always looking for energetic and dedicated volunteers who want to contribute to a safe, welcoming, and memorable experience for runners and spectators. Volunteer positions include Registration, Route Marshals, Water Stations, the Refreshments Area, and more. The County Marathon needs more than 200 volunteers; every one an important role in making race weekend special.

How can potential volunteers get in contact with the organization to get a position?

Anyone interested in volunteering can visit our main website at countymarathon.ca to register. They can also contact me personally at bmclean@thecountymarathon.ca. I always appreciate hearing from people who want to be part of the event, and we do our best to find a role that fits their interests and availability.

Where can out-of-towners go to find a place to stay in the County for the races?

On our website, we provide a list of places where out-of-town runners can stay and receive the best possible rates. We want visitors to feel welcome and to have the chance to enjoy not only race weekend, but everything Prince Edward County has to offer.

Is the County Marathon still a Boston Qualifying race?

Yes, the County Marathon is a Boston Qualifier. Every year, we make sure the race is properly sanctioned and the course is certified so runners can pursue their Boston Marathon goals with confidence.  In 2025, more than 35 runners qualified for the Boston Marathon, and that is always exciting to see. For many runners, qualifying for Boston is a dream, and I am proud that our race can be part of that journey.

What do participants get with their race bib? What’s in the kit?

As part of their entry fee, all participants receive a specifically designed race shirt for their distance of choice, a bib number that allows them to run their route, and a beautiful finisher medal when they cross the Finish Line. That medal is our way of celebrating each runner’s accomplishment, no matter which distance they complete. Participants also receive a race kit with incentives donated by local suppliers from the Prince Edward County region, along with information about the marathon, local vendors, and tourist attractions. Race kit pick-up takes place at the County Marathon Health and Wellness Expo on Saturday, October 3rd, at the famous Crystal Palace venue located at the Fairgrounds in Picton.

Are there any new and exciting things happening for this year’s event?

For 2026, we have decided to add a new Kids 1K Run to bring more of a family atmosphere to County Marathon weekend. I love the idea of giving children a chance to participate, feel the excitement of race day, and see running as something fun, healthy, and welcoming.

What numbers do you anticipate for 2026?

We are on target to pass our anticipated goal of more than 2,000 runners this year. That growth is exciting, but what matters most to me is that every person who comes to the start line feels welcomed, supported, and proud to be part of the County Marathon.

Are there discount codes available for sign-up?

Yes, there are plenty of discount codes on social media that runners can use to save money on their entry fee. I always encourage runners who are able to consider using some of those savings to make a small donation to one of our charitable partners. It is a simple way to make their race experience go a little further and support the community at the same time.

Any last words to readers and racers?

As your Race Director, and with the support of a strong committee team, my goal is to make sure every participant, family member, friend, volunteer, and spectator feels welcome and leaves with a meaningful experience. The County Marathon is more than a race to me. It is a celebration of perseverance, community, health, and everything Prince Edward County has to offer. Whether you are running your first 5K, chasing a Boston Qualifier, volunteering at a water station, or cheering from the roadside, I hope you feel part of something special.

See part one with 10 different questions answered by Race Director Brian McLean. CLICK HERE.