The Maine Marathon returns to Portland on October 4, with organizers marking the race’s 35th edition — one of the longest-running marathon events in New England.

The event, hosted by the Maine Track Club, offers a full marathon, half marathon and marathon relay, all starting and finishing along Baxter Boulevard near Portland’s Back Cove. The marathon course is USATF-certified and serves as a Boston Marathon qualifier, drawing runners from across the country to take in views of the Portland skyline, Back Cove and Casco Bay along the way.

The event is also an opportunity to give back. Since 1997, the Maine Marathon and its participants have raised nearly $9 million for local nonprofit beneficiaries. The race remains entirely volunteer-run, and organizers are continuing to recruit volunteers ahead of race weekend.

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