MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo. — As the 68th annual Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon loom on the horizon, organizers are keeping a vigilant eye on the weather, while athletes from around the globe gear up for a weekend of grueling competition and a shot at substantial prize money.
A live stream will provided with links on the Pikes Peak Marathon Facebook page. Live results and updates are available here. Ascent race starts at 7:00 a.m. local time in Colorado on Saturday, 16 September. The Marathon begins at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, 17 September. Click here for more information.
Weather Watch
Ron Ilgen, Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon president and executive race director, stated that while they don’t expect the weather to interfere, contingency plans are in place. “We’re on calls with Pikes Peak Highway, Summit House, Search and Rescue to assess each day based on the forecast,” Ilgen said.
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Lightning or a blizzard could halt or even postpone the event. The forecast suggests temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to low-40s at the summit and sunny skies with highs in the 60s and 70s in Manitou Springs.
Global Participation
The event will feature 1,800 participants in Saturday’s Ascent and 800 in Sunday’s Marathon, including runners from across the United States, Europe, and even Kenya.
The races also serve as the third-to-last event in the Golden Trail World Series, a prestigious seven-race event that began in May and ends in October.
Prize Money and Awards
For the Marathon, the first through fifth male and female finishers will receive prize money starting at $2,000, with subsequent amounts decreasing by $500 per finisher. For the Ascent, the top 10 male and female finishers will receive prize money, with first place earning $3,000. Various bonuses and bounties have also been established for runners who set new course records.
Gear and Safety Measures
Runners are required to carry a hooded, windproof, water-resistant jacket and a 12-ounce or larger refillable water vessel. These measures aim to enhance the overall race experience and ensure the safety of participants.
Watch and Follow The Pikes Peak Ascent Live
For last-minute updates, participants and fans are advised to keep an eye on the event’s Facebook page. The community of Manitou Springs and the Pikes Peak race staff wish all participants the best in their uphill (and downhill) endeavors.
For more information, visit Pikes Peak Marathon Official Website.
