The name “marathon” comes from the legend of a Greek messenger who is fabled to have run 26.2 miles straight in order to announce an Athenian victory in the Battle of Marathon. Unfortunately, this intense run didn’t turn out too well for him, but if you think you’re up for the challenge, you can test your endurance in the Raleigh City of Oaks Marathon.

The Raleigh City of Oaks Marathon attracts thousands of long-distance runners every year with a beautiful course that showcases the Triangle’s natural areas and the capital’s rich, Southern history. The marathon starts out at the North Carolina State University Bell Tower and finishes near Cameron Village, where a post-race runner festival will be held.

If you haven’t been training for a marathon, then you can take a shot at the REX Healthcare Half Marathon, the News & Observer Old Reliable 10k or four-person marathon relay which all start simultaneously at 7 a.m. on November 6th.  Feel free to bring the kids, because there is also a YMCA Kids’ Marathon Mile that starts at 7:20 a.m.

Until November 3rd, the cost to participate is $90 for the full marathon, $80 for the half marathon, $30 for the 10k and $30 for the kids’ marathon. For a full list of prices and registration info, visit this site. There simply isn’t a more beautiful and historically rich marathon course to run!