On September 26, 2021, I will trustfully be blessed to run again for Team Childhood Hunger on the 5th anniversary of Keene Elm City Rotary's Team DeMar. With the return of an actual race experience we all will have cause to celebrate the community spirit of this day, that very same energy having sustained us throughout the uncertainties of the past year.
It has been a year of unimaginable hardship and need with working families and children facing even greater challenges in food insecurity. It has also been a year of inspirational generosity in time, talent and treasure as individuals and organizations have tirelessly stepped forward - organizing, donating, picking, chopping, cooking, packing, driving - whatever it takes. I have seen firsthand how far the $13,000.00 hunger donation can go and I know the difference that it makes in the lives of our children.
Just as a race begins with one hopeful stride and a long race may cause one to consider compromising, the fight to end childhood hunger can seem overwhelming. Instead I choose to feel connected with each of you who have supported me over the years. I trace the line of your donations going straight to the children in need. I focus on the beautiful boxes full of love and fresh produce that will feed a family of 4 for a week. I imagine the ten dollars that is popping up on my tally board going to buy one of these boxes.
This year will have its own set of growing demands on families and children. That is why I have set my personal goal higher as have many of my Team members. Please consider a donation that helps you feel connected to the future of this community. Please remember that our strides will not cease until we reach our goal of "every child, every meal, every day."
With gratitude -
Ann
2021 Clarence DeMar Marathon & DeMar Half Marathon
Here, anyone who wants to run can run. We’ll make sure you have an world-class experience. All you have to do is start.
The DeMar Marathon course runs through the exquisite New Hampshire countryside. The USATF-certified course includes stunning views of early foliage season, accessible terrain, and a finish line at the historic Appian Way of Keene State College, just steps from where marathon legend Clarence DeMar used to coach collegiate runners.
While there is a net elevation drop from start to finish, this is overall a challenging yet fair test for endurance runners of all abilities. The first half of the 26.2-mile course offers mostly gentle rolling hills. There is a long climb in mile 15 with short steeper climbs in miles 22 and in mile 24 through the beautiful Greenlawn and Woodland cemeteries.
The Full Marathon begins in Gilsum, N.H. The Half Marathon begins at the Surry Recreational Dam in Surry, N.H. The Super Seniors and DeMar Kids Marathon begin 1.2 miles from the finish line.
Learn more about the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, Super Seniors Marathon, and DeMar Kids Marathaon.
Team DeMar is proud to work alongside Keene Elm City Rotary to support causes directly impacting the health, wellbeing and growth of the children of our community, and teach youth to be global stewards. The money raised through Team Demar goes directly to these initiatives. We invite all runners, not just local runners, to join Team DeMar and run in support of your community. As part of Team DeMar, you have the option to direct the money you raise to one of four causes. You will work with runners and community members, encouraging and supporting one another as you work towards your individual fundraising goals.
We are proud to announce the follwing 2021 Team DeMar causes!
- Childhood Hunger
- Interact/Roteract Central America
- Unsung Hero Scholarship
- Sneaker Project