Thank you

Why I Do This

A message from Race Director Brian McLean

People often ask why I dedicate so much time and energy to organizing a two-day event that takes a full year to plan and brings plenty of challenges along the way. The answer is simple: I love running. It’s a passion that’s shaped my life-and it’s also how I met the most incredible woman, who later became my wife.

Running has given me so much over the years. It’s kept me healthy, strong, and grounded. But beyond the personal benefits, it’s the people who make this journey worthwhile – the seasoned athletes, the first-time runners, and the volunteers who show up with smiles that could fill a stadium. Every person who crosses that finish line has a story, and I’m proud to cheer them on. The medals we hand out are just the icing on a deeply personal achievement.

This year, we expanded the County Marathon to include a 5K Fun Run and the much loved relay race – both exceeded our first-year registration goals. We also introduced a Health and Wellness Community Expo at registration, featuring incredible local businesses and interest groups that showcased the very best of Prince Edward County. The response was overwhelming and we are grateful to those teams of people who represented The County.

We welcomed 1,600 registered runners this year, with 74% hailing from outside the region. That’s over 1,184 runners not including their loved ones and family who made their way to our community for the weekend or the day. Accommodations were booked solid, with some guests staying in surrounding towns like Tweed and Campbellford. Picton’s Main Street was buzzing all day Saturday, and local restaurants reported a surge in business. It’s clear: the County Marathon is becoming a premier community event – one rooted in wellness, pride, and connection.

To the many businesses who fed, housed, and welcomed our guests – THANK YOU! You were part of the magic. In your own way, you crossed the finish line with every runner.

To the residents who stood on porches and driveways, cheering with heart and spirit – we salute YOU! Your encouragement may have carried someone through a tough mile, even if you didn’t realize it. To the generous family who turned their garden hose into a shower for 1,600 grateful runners – we Thank You! This year, water was a gift, and you shared it with absolute joy.

And to our neighbours who faced detours and delays with patience and grace – your support meant the world! You helped make this weekend possible. Each year, we gain new insights. Each year, we grow a little stronger. I remain committed to refining and enhancing the elements that make this event so meaningful – for our runners, our volunteers, and our community.

Mark your calendars – October 4th, 2026 – we’ll see you at the start line for next year’s County Marathon.

Brian McLean
Race Director, The County Marathon