8/1/2011
SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The 50-state Marathon Club boosted competition at
North Bend State Park’s Ridge Runner Marathon on June 4.
The park recognized 70 marathon runners from 15 states and the District of Columbia, including Colorado, Minnesota, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Texas, Ohio, North Carolina, New York, Connecticut, California, Illinois, Florida, and West Virginia.
The 50 States Marathon Club is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of health and fitness and the members share the common goal of running a marathon in each of the 50 states. To join, a runner must have completed a marathon in at least 10 states.
In its 33rd year, Ridge Runner also includes a 10-mile run. Both races total in excess of 150 runners. The River City Runners Club provided timing services for the event. North Bend is one of three marathons in West Virginia, according to programmer Ken Zebo, who commended the park staff for the hard work and their diligence in providing a quality course for runners.
On June 19, North Bend State Park Foundation held a Mountain Bike Race fundraiser. More than 200 participants and spectators came out for this event that raised more than $3,000 for the foundation. Racers were bracketed into skill levels and competed for prizes.
Outdoor activities of hiking, running, and biking continue to lure guests to West Virginia’s state parks. For events at North Bend and all state parks and forests, visit
www.wvstateparks.com, “Events Calendar.”
Contact Information
Sissie Summers, Programming Administrator
304-558-2764
dnr.parks@wv.gov