Pro Football HOF Marathon Celebrates Fifth Anniversary

Courtesy of Canton Rep

The Pro Football Hall of Fame Marathon returns this year for its fifth anniversary.

Thousands of runners representing 48 states and 12 countries are signed up to participate in this year’s events.

If you live or drive in Canton, here’s what you need to know:

Weekend schedule

Friday:
4 to 8 p.m. The U.S. Army Health and Fitness expo at the Stark County Fairgrounds is open. All runners, families and community members may attend.
5 to 8 p.m. Ticketed “Welcome to Canton” reception at Canton Brewing Co.

Saturday:
8 a.m. Draft Day 5K starts at the fairgrounds
9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The U.S. Army Health and Fitness expo is open
1:30 to 2 p.m. Free kids mini marathon at the fairgrounds (1.2 miles open to ages 16 and younger)

Sunday:
7 a.m. Marathon, half marathon and relay begin at the fairgrounds
7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shuttles run between the fairgrounds and Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium where the race finishes

Other things to know

• Only runners will be allowed on the field of Benson Stadium — spectators will need to remain in the stands.

• The marathon this year is partnering with wear blue: run to remember, an organization that honors members of the military at races across the country. There will be a wear blue section lined with volunteers holding American flags and placards showing pictures of fallen service members.

• There will be thousands of people participating in races during the weekend:

• 1,500 are expected for the 5K

• 1,600 are expected for the marathon

• 2,800 are expected for the half marathon

• 1,000 are expected for the relay

• And more than 300 kids are expected to participate in the kids mini marathon Saturday

For more information about Road closures and maps of the course, click here>>>