Races set for Vancouver

There will be a full day of races for enthusiastic runners to enjoy in Vancouver.

The 3rd Annual Peacehealth Appletree Marathon, Half Marathon, and Sunset 5K is now on the schedule. The full marathon is a qualifier for the famous Boston Marathon, and all the runs take place in Vancouver.

The course is fast-paced, flat, and scenic. All three races start and finish at the Grant House in Officer's Row. The marathon and half-marathon then go through Fort Vancouver, which was built in 1824; the Army Barracks; Officer's Row; and Pearson Airport, which is the nation's oldest airport that is still operating. The route continues past the Old Apple Tree, a local landmark; and along the Columbia River.

Although the 5K covers part of the same route, no part of this course lies next to the Columbia River.

One of the highlights of the run is passing the Old Apple Tree Park, home to the Northwest's oldest apple tree; the tree might be the oldest on the whole West Coast, and lends its name to the race.

The 5K Sunset Run is scheduled for October 19 at 6.00 pm, while both the marathon and half-marathon are set for September 20. The marathon starts at 7.00 am, and the half-marathon begins an hour later. If necessary due to health concerns, the event will be transitioned to a virtual race, but not canceled. Banner printing can provide course markers for events like this.