The Goodlife Fitness Victoria Marathon will celebrate its 35th birthday this year, but instead of receiving gifts it's giving them.
The marathon announced during a media conference Tuesday morning that $1 from every registration will be donated to its charity pledge program.
This could potentially bring in an additional $11,000 to charities based on final registration numbers.
“The charities continue to help the Victoria Marathon Society spread the word and get new runners and walkers inspired to participate, and raise dollars for their charity of choice. It is a win-win partnership,” said Cathy Noel, general manager of the Goodlife Fitness Victoria Marathon.
The prize purse for the elite program will be increased by $15,000. The incentive bonus for a Canadian breaking the course record remains at $5,000, but an additional $1,000 will be awarded to the top Canadian in the marathon, male and female.
Noel also announced some green initiatives: a partnership with Island Return It to recycle paper cups and gel packs – it is estimated that 175,000 cups could be recycled on race day. For the second year, the marathon will partner with the Green Team to ensure the course is clean after the event.
Finally Noel announced that all marathon participants will receive New Balance jackets and CHEK News was the title sponsor of the 2014 charity pledge program..
“We want everyone crossing the finish line on Oct. 12 to celebrate their event, the success of others and the commitment to running a local event which has an impact on the entire community,” says Noel.
The Goodlife Fitness Victoria Marathon comprises of four races: the 42.2-kilometre marathon, half-marathon, 8K road race and kids run.
The first registration deadline for the event is May 15. The registration fees are $90 for the Marathon, $65 for the Half Marathon and $35 for the 8K Road Race. From May 16 the regular registration fees will be $100 for the Marathon, $75 for the Half Marathon and $40 for the 8K Road Race. The entry fee for the Thrifty Foods Kids Run will remain at $17 until October 11. Register here.
The Victoria Marathon is Oct. 12.