Strap on your running shoes. The Yellowhead Outdoor Recreation Association (YORA) announced this week that the second annual Mount Robson Marathon will be held on Saturday, September 8, 2012. Last year’s event was part of BC Park’s centennial. YORA members say they are grateful to BC Parks for the opportunity to host another marathon event on the world famous Berg Lake Trail in Mount Robson Provincial Park.

The 2011 event brought over 250 participants to the Valemount area, and total spending by the participants was estimated at $21,000.

YORA member Darryl Polyk say they hope to double the number of participants, but that will be determined in partnership with BC Parks.

YORA also hopes to host a gala evening in Valemount on Saturday night.

As in 2011, this year there will full-marathon (42.2km) and half-marathon (21.1km) events on the Berg Lake Trail, as well as a shorter event. In addition to the races, there will be a kids’ fun run, live music and other activities during the day.

Last year, participants were blown away by the splendid trail, stunning scenery and wonderful enthusiasm of the volunteers, Polyk says.

Further details for runners interested in participating, including registration date and entry fees, will be announced online at www.mountrobsonmarathon.ca when available.

To keep up-to-date regarding the event, email [email protected] to be put on the email list, follow @MtRobsonMarathn on Twitter, or visit their website.

With almost twice as many participants expected as last year, and many suggestions and ideas on how to improve the event, there will be lots of work to do between now and race day. YORA will be holding an initial organizational meeting on Sunday, April 22nd at 1 pm at the Caribou Grill. Anyone interested in helping to organize the event is encouraged to attend. If you want to get involved but can’t attend the meeting, call Darryl 250-566-4347 or email [email protected].