Once again Marley Park Community Association, Inc. was honored to sponsor the IMS half marathon, full marathon and relay, and to host the start line for the half marathon participants.

Hundreds of eager racers gathered on the Heritage Club campus, allowing guests to stay warm, stretch and use the facilities prior to the 7:30 a.m. start. Staged directly in front of Marley Park Elementary School heading east along Sweetwater Avenue, the runners, joggers and walkers anxiously huddled in the perfectly sunny 58-degree weather as Surprise Mayor Sharon Walcott shot the starting pistol and away they went.

Nearly 1,400 participants, including dozens of Marley Park residents, earned medals after completing the 13.1 mile course, which passed through three cities as well as a jaunt through Luke Air Force Base.

The 8th Annual IMS Arizona Half Marathon finished at Westgate Entertainment District where supporters cheered as their loved ones crossed the finish line. To date, the proceeds from this event have helped contribute more than $200,000 to West Valley charities.

Thank you to the many volunteers who were up bright and early to provide a warm welcome and genuine Marley Park spirit to participants as they arrived.

Check out the race results and congratulate neighbors who conquered these challenging events!

Interested in crossing this one off of your bucket list next year? We have two local running clubs that can help you reach your goal and they are free, fun and for all ages and fitness levels. For more information visit gottarunarizona.com or surpriserunningclub.org.