Adirondack marathon and distance festival director joel friedman presenting a runner with a bear. SCHROON LAKER COLLECTION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Joel Friedman – director of the Adirondack Marathon and Distance Festival, still finds it hard to believe that the event he created turns 20 this September.

From humble beginnings, the event now referred to as “the most beautiful 26.2 miles you’ll ever run, is an established and well respected race, attracting runners from all over the world.

“So far this year we have runners signed up from nine countries,” Joel told us recently.

This year’s festival, which has been in the planning stage almost immediately since the last runner crossed the finish line.

This year it’s set for the weekend of September 24 – 25. And if you are thinking about getting in on the action, early registration -- where you can save a few bucks -- ends this Saturday (4/30).

This year’s events begin on Saturday, September 24, with the Chestertown 5K and 10 K. Proceeds go to the Helper’s Fund. There is also a Kids 1K Fun Run in Schroon at 2 pm, for 4 to 12-year-olds.

Saturday night there’s the traditional carbo loading pasta dinner at the Word of Life Inn and Conference Center in Schroon, with pastas, sauces, salads and yummy deserts.

aND THEY ARE OFF. rUNNERS AT THE START LINE. sCHROON LAKER COLLECTION. aLL RIGHTS RESERVED.

On Sunday, at 9am, the full marathon kicks off in downtown Schroon in front of the Higher Grounds, Upstate Building and the ‘Wolf.

Those running the half marathon are bussed to the hamlet of Adirondack to the starting line.

There is also a two person and a four person relay and a non-competitive early bird start at 7am for walkers and those who may not finish at the 3pm cut off.

Want to be inspired or motivated? Check out the official video in our Adirondack Marathon section.