Race director Brian McLean presented the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation (PECMHF) with $9,000 earlier this month, funds donated by marathoners and community members who pledged support to the Foundation as part of the race. As with other years, the County Marathon contributed funds as well.

Since the first steps of the inaugural County Marathon were taken in 2004, the race has generated over $38,000 for the Foundation, the charity of choice for the annual fall road race.

“The County Marathon Committee is thrilled to be able to donate to the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation’s Back the Build campaign, especially now that shovels have gone into the ground on the new hospital,” said Mr. McLean.

It was a successful first foray for the incoming race director. Over 600 runners took part in the 21st annual County Marathon on the last Sunday of September. Participants came from all over, including Peru, Manilla, The Netherlands, British Columbia, and Quebec — but this year’s winners were both locals.

Rossmore’s Amy Quilty, 50, won the women’s leg with a time of 3:32:41. She placed 17th overall. As for the men’s side, Owain Jones, 40, of Harrowsmith, cruised first across the line in 2:54:54 in his first ever County Marathon.

This year’s race was run in pleasant conditions and featured the return of community water stations. Hundreds of local residents lined the 42 km course to cheer on the participants.

With the drone of feet pounding main street in 2024 now just a memory, the final step in this year’s marathon was the donation of financial support for PECMH generated by runners, organizers and race fans.

“I’m very proud to be part of the philanthropic community that supports our new County hospital so enthusiastically,” said Nancy Parks, chairperson of the Back the Build campaign. “The hospital provides outstanding care to many in our community. The Foundation board of directors and campaign cabinet want to ensure our new hospital has the necessary equipment and resources when illness strikes. It’s comforting to know Prince Edward County will continue to have a great hospital, equipped to make a difference – all because of donors who care.” 

The Marathon returns October 5, 2025. The Marathon Committee seeks new partners and volunteers for next year’s race. To learn more, contact at  [email protected].