Students and townspeople who enjoy running won’t need to go far to compete in a marathon next year. The date for the second Mt. Nittany Marathon has been set for August 31, 2014, where runners will get a chance to enjoy a scenic 26.2 mile certified course around the Nittany Valley’s proudest and oldest symbol.

The first Mt. Nittany Marathon — and indeed, the first marathon in this area since 1984 — was held earlier this year thanks to the Mount Nittany Conservancy, taking 139 runners on a run around Mt. Nittany and campus and providing a constant view of the mountain that once saved our Happy Valley from the wicked winds of the North.

Prior to the Mt. Nittany Marathon, the last known marathon in the region was the Nittany Valley Track Club’s series that ran from 1972 to 1984.

“The Mount Nittany Conservancy is thrilled to be able to bring a marathon to Happy Valley,” John Hook, president of the Mount Nittany Conservancy, said of the race last year. “It is our honor and privilege to be able to conserve and preserve the iconic symbol of Penn State and the Centre region.”

Like last year, the race will start and end right next to Beaver Stadium at Lubrano Park then go around State College, although there may be a few small changes to the course from last year.

Early registration (before May 31) costs $50, but runners can sign up until August 17 for $75. Registration includes a free long sleeve shirt, a finisher medal, a pre-race pasta dinner, and post-race food. There’s plenty of time to train, and what a great motivator this race could be going into the New Year.

The Conservancy is also looking for race volunteers, so make sure to check out its website if you’re interested in learning more.