PORTLAND, Maine (August 21, 2024) –In a groundbreaking move that underscores its commitment to inclusivity, the Maine Marathon, (the 2024 RRCA Eastern Region Marathon Championship) is proud to announce the introduction of equal cash awards for nonbinary participants. This initiative, one of the first of its kind in the nation, sets a new standard in the running industry, where many races still do not offer nonbinary registration or provide awards for nonbinary runners.
This year, the Maine Marathon will offer cash prizes to the top finishers in the marathon and half marathon for male, female, and nonbinary categories. The prize amounts are identical across all gender categories, making a powerful statement about equality and recognition in sports.
“We are aware of only two other races in the country that offer equal cash awards for nonbinary runners,” said Bob Dunfey, volunteer race director. “The Maine Marathon has long been ahead of the curve by allowing nonbinary registration, and we are thrilled to take the next step by adding cash awards this year. We hope this decision inspires other races to follow suit.”
Prize Structure
Qualifying Times:
- Male:1:15 for half marathon, 2:45 for marathon
- Female:1:25 for half marathon, 3:15 for marathon
- Nonbinary:1:25 for half marathon, 3:15 for marathon
Cash Awards:
Position | Marathon (M/F/NB) | Half Marathon (M/F/NB) |
1st Place | $1,000 | $500 |
2nd Place | $800 | $400 |
3rd Place | $600 | $300 |
4th Place | $400 | $200 |
5th Place | $200 | $100 |
1st Master | $250 | $150 |
By offering these awards, the Maine Marathon not only honors the accomplishments of all runners but also sets a precedent for inclusivity in the running community.
The race takes place on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at 7:45am in Portland. Visit MaineMarathon.com to register to run.
While the 2024 race beneficiaries have been selected, we are accepting beneficiary applications for 2025 Click here to learn more and apply
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About the Race
The Gorham Savings Bank Maine Marathon, Half Marathon & Relay is a Maine Track Club event. Founded in 1979, the nonprofit, all-volunteer Maine Track Club is Maine’s largest and most active running club. Since 1997, the Maine Marathon has donated more than $7 million to local Maine charities. Over 50 volunteer race coordinators plan the event during the year and over 900 volunteers support the event on race weekend.
The 2024 event will be the 33rd edition – making this one of the longest running marathon events in New England. Volunteers act as race directors as well as handling the logistics of race day, organizing the expo, helping to find sponsors and more.
The event features an out-and-back course with rolling hills and views of the Portland skyline, the Back Cove, Casco Bay, and peak fall foliage. The Marathon is USATF certified and a Boston Marathon qualifier. The Half Marathon is also USATF certified, and the Marathon Relay is a unique 2 to 4-person marathon-length event.
Learn more at MaineMarathon.com.