2020 Pikes Peak Ascent canceled, but marathon may still happen

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- There won't be a horde of runners stomping their way up America's Mountain for the Pikes Peak Ascent this year because of COVID-19 concerns, but there's still a chance for one of the most grueling marathons in the nation to happen this August.

Organizers with the Pikes Peak Marathon announced Thursday that the Ascent, set for Aug. 22, had to be canceled because they couldn't feasibly host the event with the safety precautions needed amid COVID-19.

"With social distancing requirements, race organizers could not secure enough vans or volunteer drivers to carry runners down safely and in a timely manner," said a statement from the Pikes Peak Marathon Board of Directors.

But that also means there's a possibility that the marathon itself, set for Aug. 23, will still happen. Since runners turn around at the summit half-way point, there's no need for the convoy of vans and drivers. Organizers say they're hopeful a variance will be approved to let the Marathon take place.

Runners who already paid for the Ascent can get full refunds, be credited for the 2021 race, or donate half of their fee to the El Paso County Search and Rescue and the Rocky Mountain Field Institute -- a decision needs to be made by July 1. Marathon runners who have paid their fee also have the same options if they want to cancel before June 20.

This also means that Manitou Springs resident Matt Carpenter, who currently runs the Colorado Custard Company on Manitou Ave., will hold onto his Ascent speed record (2:01) for another year.