Northeast Kingdom Marathon and Half 2024

by Billy Kobin

Another year, another successful and enjoyable time in Vermont for the Northeast Kingdom Marathon and Half Marathon. The race that is modeled after Millinocket by way of having no registration fee was on a Sunday (Sept. 22) rather than Saturday this year, so that made it tough for a bigger group to go this year, but several Striders - Martha Nadeau, Sylvia Ryan, Butch Parker, Billy Kobin, and David Audette- along with our four-legged member Zena made the trek to beautiful Island Pond, Vermont, to enjoy the half marathon and an idyllic fall weekend.

All of us ran the half marathon and felt generally good, with some high finishes in the overall and/or age group categories for the group. We once again stayed at a cabin owned by a guy from Mass named Biff, and Biff’s place continued to offer exactly what we need, with the pond behind it always offering an ideal spot to relax, meditate, paddle and stand in while appreciating the Vermont scenery. Supporting the local businesses, cafes and food spots in Island Pond is always a key part of the trip, and Friday night karaoke at the Essex House & Tavern featured Martha winning a prize. Some of the locals literally couldn’t keep their eyes off of us. That’s how much of an aura we have.

Those hoping to return next year or run NEK for the first time should definitely do so. The organizer said he had a new job in education this year that made it difficult to hold a Saturday race with a smaller team of volunteers, but he may go back to that day in the future, which would make for plenty of more good memories. The team behind the race, volunteers and Island Pond residents otherwise greatly appreciate our presence and love having Central Mainers Striders visit.