| Pikes Peak Marathon |
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Because of the nature of the Run (dirt trails, rock, and other natural obstacles) and the high altitude, the race is considered to be much more difficult than standard 26.2-mile Marathons . This is attested to by the best times for the round trip being typically just under 4-hours (versus the regular "flat land" marathon times of just over 2-hours). While the average Grade of the slope is 11%, there are sections which are much steeper because the central portion of the race is actually relatively flat. The initial three Mile s are very steep. The central 7 miles start as rolling terrain, but become progressively steeper toward the end. The top 3 miles are above Timberline and often require some rock climbing to reach the summit. Oxygen tensions drop progressively as altitude rises, further compounding the uphill ordeal. The history of the race dates to 1956 when Smoker s challenged non-smokers to complete the over-26 mile race. At the end of the initial race of 13 contestants, none of the three smokers had completed the course. In 1966 a well-organized marathon was initiated, making the race one of the older existing marathons in the United States . Currently, the Race typically attracts several hundred runners for both the ascent and for the round-trip. Winning race times may differ significantly from year to year, often depending on weather and trail conditions. Some races have been assocated with hot, dry conditions, while others have been associated with Snow and cold at the top of the peak. DEATHS
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