Events

  • Register for Mount Nittany Night 2024

    We invite you to join us this Saturday, June 8th for Mount Nittany Night 2024! We will honor Blake and Linda Gall with the Mount Nittany Conservancy’s “Friend of the Mountain” Award, recognizing distinguished service to the cause of Mount Nittany’s conservation as a cultural and environmental landmark.

    Celebrate our community and our Mountain with a night of good food, drinks, and fun. Come out to celebrate Mount Nittany, enjoy fellowship with others, and learn about the next chapter in the story of our Mountain’s conservation. Tickets are $40 per person, with all proceeds supporting the work of the Mount Nittany Conservancy. Register today.

    Mount Nittany Night 2024
    Where: Mount Nittany Vineyard and Winery
    When: Saturday, June 8 · 6 – 8pm EDT
    Register

  • Centred Outdoors Hikes the Mountain

    Centred Outdoors Hikes the Mountain

    As part of the 2017 Centred Outdoors program, groups were given guided hikes to the Mike Lynch Overlook on Sunday, August 3 and Wednesday August 6, 2017. Escorted by Mt. Nittany Conservancy members, 115 hikers learned about the mountain as they climbed to the recently improved Mike Lynch Overlook. The weather both days was fantastic.

    Thanks to everyone that came out for event!

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    Centred Outdoors was made possible by funding from the 2016 Centre Inspires grant which was awarded to ClearWater Conservancy by the Centre Foundation.

    Learn More:
    https://www.centredoutdoors.org/
    http://www.clearwaterconservancy.org/
    http://www.centre-foundation.org/

     

  • Sixth Annual Mount Nittany Night

    The 6th Annul Mt. Nittany Night is Friday, June 24, 2016 from 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. at the Mountain View Country Club. $40 per person for hors d’oeuvres and wine to celebrate the Mountain. All proceeds benefit the Mount Nittany Conservancy.

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  • Pasta Pass Restaurants

    PASTA PASS PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS:

    • Allen Street Grill
    • Bill Pickles Taproom
    • Carnegie’s Inn and Spa
    • Corner Room Restaurant
    • Noodles & Company
    • P.J. Harrigan’s
    • The Tavern Restaurant
    • Zeno’s Pub

    Click HERE for a printable list of the Restaurants

    The Pasta Pass is graciously provided by:

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  • Participating Hotels

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    Mt. Nittany Marathon Special!!
    PER NIGHT Rates for Friday, September 4th – Monday, September 7th, 2015

    PARTICIPATING HOTELS
    __________________________________________________________

    The Atherton Hotel
    124 S. Atherton St., State College, PA 16801; (814)231-2100
    $109 + Tax and Parking
    www.athertonhotel.net

    Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites
    115 Premiere Drive, State College, PA 16801; (814) 234-8393
    $85.00  + Tax
    www.nittanyhotel.com

    Comfort Suites
    132 Village Drive, State College, PA 16801; (814) 235-1900
    $79.00  + Tax  Promo Code: Mount Nittany Marathon
    www.comfortsuites.com/hotel/pa276

    Country Inn & Suites
    1357 East College Avenue, State College, PA 16801; (814) 234-6000
    $79.00  + Tax  Promo Code: Mount Nittany Marathon
    www.countryinns.com/statecollegepa

    Courtyard by Marriott
    1730 University Drive, State College, PA 16801; (814) 238-1881
    $129.00  + Tax
    www.marriott.com/scecy

    Days Inn – Penn State
    240 South Pugh Street, State College, PA 16801; (814) 238-8454
    $104.00  + Tax
    www.lioncountrylodging.com

    Fairfield Inn & Suites
    2215 North Atherton Street, State College, PA 16801; (814) 238-3871
    $119.00  + Tax  Promo Code MNMG
    www.mariott.com/hotels/travel/sceco

    Hampton Inn & Suites
    1955 Waddle Road, State College, PA 16801; (814) 231-1899
    $109.00  + Tax  Promo Code MNM
    www.photowebusa.com/hampton/statecollege

    Hilton Garden Inn
    1221 East College Avenue, State College, PA 16801; (814) 272-1221
    $89.00  + Tax  Promo Code NSR
    www.statecollege.hgi.com

    Ramada Conference & Golf Hotel
    1450 South Atherton Street, State College, PA 16801; (814) 238-3001
    $65.00 + Tax  Promo Code Mt Nittany Marathon or group code (MNIT)
    www.ramadasc.com

    Residence Inn by Marriott
    1555 University Drive, State College, PA 16801; (814) 235-6960
    $139.00 + Tax
    www.residenceinnstatecollege.com

    Sleep Inn
    111 Village Drive, State College, PA 16801; (814) 235-1020
    $69.00 + Tax  Promo Code: Mount Nittany Marathon
    www.sleepinn.com/hotel/pa421

    Super 8
    1663 South Atherton Street, State College, PA 16801; (814) 237-8005
    $85.00 + Tax
    www.lioncountrylodging.com/super8

    The Penn Stater Conference Center Hotel
    215 Innovation Boulevard, State College, PA 16801; (814) 863-5050
    $94.00 + Tax  Code: PROMO
    www.pennstatehotels.com

    Toftrees Golf Resort & Conference Center
    One Country Club Lane, State College, PA 16801; (814)234-8000
    $99 + Tax Code: NITTANY
    www.toftrees.com

    All rooms are subject to availability and applicable taxes will be applied. Pricing is PER NIGHT. 

    With Special Thanks to the
    Central PA Convention & Visitors Bureau

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  • Marathon Volunteer Information

    Thank you for your interest in volunteering for the 3nd Mt. Nittany Marathon on September 6, 2015.  Happy, smiling faces along the race route are the best motivation for our runners.  We need 200 volunteers to successfully manage the race — if you can help, or know someone who can, please volunteer

    For a complete list of all our volunteer needs, click to open our Volunteer Packet.

    NOTE as of 8/20/15: All Water Stations and Pre-and Post-Race Help Opportunities are filled.  We NEED  course marshals and bicyclists!  See below for the Course Marshal spots still available.  Maps are in the Volunteer Packet linked above.  Thank you!

    Decide which opportunity best suits you and email me your name and preferred location and we’ll get you set up!

    Thank you for volunteering and supporting the Mount Nittany Conservancy! 

    John Hook
    President, Mount Nittany Conservancy
    John@MtNittany.org

    CM# COURSE MARSHALS MIN. # OF VOLUNTEERS TIME PERIOD REQUIRED
    23 Rock Hill Rd  & Linden Hall Rd 1 7:30 – 10:00 AM
    30 Brandywine & Scenery Dr 1 8:00 – 10:30 AM
    31 Scenery Drive & Windmere Dr 1 8:00 – 11:00 AM
    32 Windmere Dr & Windmere Dr 1 8:00 – 11:00 AM
    33 Windmere Dr & Rolling Ridge Drive 1 8:00 – 11:00 AM
    34 Rolling Ridge Dr & S. Atherton 1 8:00 – 11:00 AM
    36 S. Atherton & Branch Rd 1 8:00 – 11:00 AM
    63 Bike Path at end of Hillcrest Ave. 1 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
    64 Bike Path at end of W. Park Ave 1 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
  • Mt. Nittany 5K

    THANK YOU FOR RUNNING!
    RACE RESULTS ARE HERE.

    NEW FOR 2015 — The Mt. Nittany 5K!  Want to support the Mount Nittany Conservancy but running a Marathon is a bit much?  Run the 5K!   The 5K course starts and finishes at the same place as the marathon and the last mile of the 5K is the same course as the marathoners — all the excitement but only 12% of the distance!  When you’re done you can hang out and cheer on the marathoners.

    Start & Finish: Medlar Field Baseball Stadium on the Penn State University main campus (near Beaver Stadium) — State College, PA.  Google map HERE.  The Stadium is a beautiful new facility with plenty of restrooms and a covered concourse in case of inclement weather.  Post-race food and refreshments will be available here.

    Date: Sunday, September 6, 2015

    Start Time: 9:00 AM

    Course Map: Click HERE to link to the MapMyRun map.    

    Entry Fee: $20.00 (Note: T-shirts not guaranteed after 8/20/15)

    REGISTRATION:
    Online registration is now closed.  Day of race registration (no t-shirt) available on Sunday, September 6, 2015 from 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM at Medlar Field.

    5K Entry Fee Includes:

    • Commemorative T-Shirt (T-Shirts not guaranteed for registrations after August 20th)
    • On-Course Refreshments (Water and “ade” drink)
    • Post-Race Food and Refreshments
    • Souvenir ChampionChip timing chip and Racing Bib

    Eligibility: Open to all ages.

    Packet Pick-Up Location & Times:

    • Saturday, September 5, 2015: 1:00 – 5:00 PM, Centre County/Penn State Visitor Center, 800 Park Ave., State College, PA 16803 (corner of Park Ave. & Porter Road – enter parking lot from Porter Road)
    • Sunday, September 6, 2015: Race site (Medlar Field at Lubrano Park) starting at 5:30 AM.

    Race Day Parking: There is plenty of free parking in paved lots around Beaver Stadium, the Bryce Jordan Center and Medlar Field, all within a hundred yards of the Start/Finish line.

    Cancellation PolicyRegistration fees for the 2015 Mt. Nittany 5K are non-refundable and non-transferable.

    Safety Reminder: For the safety of yourself and the other participants, baby joggers, strollers, baby carriers, baby backpacks, inline skates, motorized scooters, bicycles, skateboards, canes, crutches, walkers, walking sticks and animals of any kind are prohibited from starting the course. Headphones are HIGHLY discouraged due to traffic patterns throughout the course that require complete attention to ensure your safety.

    Bib Numbers: Each runner will be issued a bib number at Packet Pick-Up. It is the responsibility of the runner to wear the bib number during the race. The bib identifies you as a runner to volunteers, law enforcement, and safety officials.

    Timing & Results: The Mt. Nittany Marathon is a timed event. The disposable ChampionChips timing system will be used with both a start and finish sensor to provide an accurate result for every participant and to eliminate a need to rush the start. A link to results will be posted on this page following the conclusion of the race.

    Weather: The race will be held rain or shine. If there is lightning in the area the race will either have a delayed start or, depending on the intensity of the weather, be cancelled. The determination will be made by the Marathon organizers. Runner and Volunteer safety will not be compromised.

    Awards: Top 3 Overall Male and Female winners will receive certificates.

    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION or QUESTIONS: Contact John Hook, President of the Mount Nittany Conservancy at John@MtNittany.org.

  • 3rd Annual Mt. Nittany Marathon – September 6, 2015

    3rd Marathon is in the Books!
    Race Results HERE! 

    NOTE: Due to a number of circumstances there will not be a 2016 Mt. Nittany Marathon. 

    The Mt. Nittany Marathon is a scenic 26.2 mile certified course (a “Boston Qualifier”) winding around the area of its namesake – Mt. Nittany. Utilizing local bike paths and roadways, the marathon is the Sunday of Labor Day weekend when historical temperatures range from a low of 50 degrees to a high of 77 degrees Fahrenheit.  Start time is 7:00 AM.  Read comments from runners of the Inaugural Marathon HERE.

    marathon1Start & Finish: Medlar Field Baseball Stadium on the Penn State University main campus (across Porter Road from Beaver Stadium) — State College, PA.  Google map HERE.  The Stadium is a beautiful  facility with plenty of restrooms and a covered concourse in case of inclement weather.  There are lots of seats with a great view of Mt. Nittany for those waiting for runners to finish.  Post-race food and refreshments will be available here.

    Date: Sunday, September 6, 2015

    Start Time: 7:00 AM     Course timing stops at 1:00 PM.

    Course Map: The course is a challenging certified course (USATF Certification Code: PA14045WB).  Click HERE for a complete map with turn-by-turn directions.  For an elevation profile of the course, click HERE to access a map on MapMyRun.com.  If you would like to read the Race Director’s thoughts on the course, click HERE.  As it is a certified course, this race is a “Boston Qualifier.” We report all results to the Boston Athletic Association after the race.    

    Entry Fee:  The marathon has concluded — thank you!

    Registration is closed.
    Thank You for your interest.  

    Hotels: Need a place to stay?  Many local hotels are offering SPECIAL RATES for Marathon weekend.  Click HERE to be directed to the list.

    Pasta Meal before the race! — Saturday, September 5, 2015 in downtown State College!  Registered Marathon Runners receive a coupon for a FREE pasta meal consisting of a pasta dish, bread and a non-alcoholic beverage (or a $7.50 credit towards a higher-priced meal) at a participating restaurant. The list of participating restaurants is available HERE.

    Marathon Entry Fee Includes:

    • Long-Sleeve Synthetic Shirt
    • Pasta meal the day before the race
    • Finisher Medal
    • On-Course Refreshments (Water and “ade” drink; Gels at selected Stations)
    • Post-Race Food and Refreshments
    • Souvenir ChampionChip timing chip and Racing Bib

    New for 2015 – 5K Option at 9:00 AM!  Click HERE to go to the Mt. Nittany 5K page.

    Eligibility: To compete in the Mt. Nittany Marathon you must be at least 18 years of age.

    Pacing Requirements: All athletes entering the Marathon must maintain a 14-minute per mile pace or faster throughout the entire race and finish within 6 (six) hours. Anyone not able to maintain a 14-minute per mile pace may continue the course, but be there is no guarantee of aid station, course marshal or police officer availability. Click HERE for a chart of the mile and water station splits necessary to maintain this pace.

    Packet Pick-Up Location & Times:

    • Saturday, September 5, 2015: 1:00 – 5:00 PM, Centre County/Penn State Visitor Center, 800 Park Ave., State College, PA 16803 (corner of Park Ave. & Porter Road – enter parking lot from Porter Road)
    • Sunday, September 6, 2015: Race site (Medlar Field at Lubrano Park) starting at 5:30 AM.

    Race Day Parking: There is plenty of free parking in paved lots around Beaver Stadium, the Bryce Jordan Center and Medlar Field, all within a hundred yards of the Start/Finish line.

    Cancellation PolicyRegistration fees for the 2015 Mt. Nittany Marathon are non-refundable and non-transferable.

    Safety Reminder: For the safety of yourself and the other participants, baby joggers, strollers, baby carriers, baby backpacks, inline skates, motorized scooters, bicycles, skateboards, canes, crutches, walkers, walking sticks and animals of any kind are prohibited from starting the course. Headphones are HIGHLY discouraged due to traffic patterns throughout the course that require complete attention to ensure your safety.

    Bib Numbers: Each runner will be issued a bib number at Packet Pick-Up. It is the responsibility of the runner to wear the bib number during the race. The bib identifies you as a runner to volunteers, law enforcement, and safety officials.

    Timing & Results: The Mt. Nittany Marathon is a timed event. The disposable ChampionChips timing system will be used with both a start and finish sensor to provide an accurate result for every participant and to eliminate a need to rush the start. A link to results will be posted on this page following the conclusion of the race.

    Weather: The race will be held rain or shine. However, if there is lightning in the area the race will either have a delayed start or, depending on the intensity of the weather, be cancelled. The determination will be made by the Marathon organizers. Runner and Volunteer safety will not be compromised.

    Awards: Top 3 Overall Male and Female winners will receive awards at a presentation at approximately 11:00 AM inside Medlar Field.

    Previous Results: 20142013

    VOLUNTEERS!!   We need YOU!!  NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!   Water Stations, Course Marshalls, Bicyclists, Loaders — we have an opportunity to fit you.  Volunteer for the marathon, help preserve Mt. Nittany, AND get a FREE T-shirt!  Download a packet with all the volunteer opportunities HERE or visit the Volunteer webpage HERE .  Email John Hook at John@MtNittany.org and we’ll get you signed up!

    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION or QUESTIONS: Contact John Hook, President of the Mount Nittany Conservancy at John@MtNittany.org.

    Marathon too short for you?  Try the Tussey Mountainback 50-mile ultramarathon on October 25, 2015. 
    Just want a Half-marathon? Try the Nittany Valley Half-Marathon on December 6, 2015.

  • Participating Restaurants for the Pasta Dinner

    Tarragon
    125 South Atherton Street, State College, PA  16801
    814-231-2100     www.athertonhotel.net

    Chumley’s Pub
    108 West College Avenue, State College, PA  16801
    814-238-2446     www.hotelstatecollege.com

    Zeno’s Pub
    100 West College Avenue, State College, PA  16801
    814-237-2857     www.zenospub.com

    Allen Street Grill
    100 West College Avenue, State College, PA  16801
    814-231-4745     www.allenstreetgrill.com

    The Corner Room Restaurant
    100 West College Avenue, State College, PA  16801
    814-237-3051     cornerroom.com

    Bill Pickles Taproom
    106 South Allen Street, State College, PA  16801
    814-272-1172     www.hotelstatecollege.com/pickles/

    Harrison’s Wine Grill & Catering
    1221 East College Avenue, State College, PA 16801
    814-237-4422     www.harrisonsmenu.com

    Rotelli
    250 East Calder Way, State College, PA  16801
    814-238-8463     www.rotellistatecollege.com

    P.J. Harrigan’s Bar & Grill
    1450 South Atherton Street, State College, PA  16801
    814-235-3009     www.pjharrigans.com

    The Tavern Restaurant
    220 East College Avenue, State College, PA  16801
    814-238-6116     www.thetavern.com

    Home D Pizzeria/Robin Hood Brewing Company
    1820 South Atherton Street, State College, PA 16801
    814-237-7777     www.homedpizzeria.com

    Noodles & Company
    244 West College Avenue, State College, PA 16801
    814-235-0703     www.noodles.com

    With Generous Support From:

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    www.visitpennstate.org

  • Ben Novak Receives ‘Friend of the Mountain’ Award at Mount Nittany Night

    Ben Novak Receives ‘Friend of the Mountain’ Award at Mount Nittany Night

    Ben Novak, founder and first president of the Mount Nittany Conservancy, was recognized with the “Friend of the Mountain” Award at Mount Nittany Night on April 4, 2014 by MNC board member Jeff Dietrich. Tom Shakely filmed Jeff Dietrich’s remarks and Ben Novak’s short address:

    Jeff Dietrich, MNC board member:

    No one can properly recall the long tale of Mount Nittany without uttering the name of Ben Novak. Ben has lived the Penn State experience to the fullest. He was student body president, assistant dean of students, president of the Lion’s Paw Alumni Association, and a University trustee. But perhaps the most significant and lasting Happy Valley legacy of this U.S. Army Bronze Star recipient is his love and tireless dedication to Mount Nittany’s beauty, and for telling her story.

    During the 1980s, when the moment of opportunity came to purchase hundreds of acres of the Mountain’s most visible land, Ben was equipped with both a vision and the passion that led to the formation of the Mount Nittany Conservancy, and the nearly miraculous feat in the early 1980s of raising about $120,000 in little more than a year. Indeed, it was thanks to Ben’s critical negotiations with landowner and previous “Friend of the Mountain” recipient Wilhelm Koggelman, that the Mount Nittany Conservancy and its supporters were able to seize that moment. As Ben tells the story, since the Mount Nittany Conservancy was still just a dream during the negotiations, the deal was done on a handshake between Ben and Willy. During the adventure, Ben played a central role not only in organizing and directing the group’s fundraising efforts, but also appealing personally to the State College community and wider Penn State alumni groups. Having himself been enchanted by the inherent “magic of the Mountain,” Ben recognized that the path of necessity ending in donor’s pocketbooks, led through the heart and imagination. He made time to speak directly to every school classroom, civic organization, campus group, and alumni function to share the legend of the Mountain and Princess Nittany for the Mountain that bears her name.

    Ben had to be a bit of a rebel to do this. As he has said, and I quote, “I started this when nobody believed we could raise the money. I went against the leadership of my organization in Lion’s Paw, the University administration, and many people in the town who thought it was a fool’s errand. I was banking completely on the emotional attachment of alumni, students, and townspeople to preserve the sacred of the Mountain in its natural state. I bet everything on that, and it came through.”

    Ben continues to tell the story of the Mountain today, and so we are very pleased this evening to honor Ben Novak, who so richly deserved to be called “Friend of the Mountain.”

  • 2nd Annual Mt. Nittany Marathon — Labor Day Weekend 2014

    2014 Results are posted online HERE.
    Or copy and paste the following into your browser:

    http://nvrun.com/index.php/racing/results/1522-2nd-annual-mount-nittany-marathon

    Link to runner photos taken at mile 16.5:
    https://www.flickr.com/photos/127435115@N08/sets/72157646667264670/

    MARK YOUR CALENDARS:  THE THIRD ANNUAL MT. NITTANY MARATHON IS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2015 AT 7:00 AM!!   
    REGISTRATION WILL OPEN SOON FOR “THE TOUGHEST LITTLE MARATHON IN THE EAST!’

    The Mt. Nittany Marathon is a scenic 26.2 mile certified course winding around the area of its namesake – Mt. Nittany. Utilizing local bike paths and roadways, the marathon is the Sunday of Labor Day weekend when historical temperatures range from a low of 50 degrees to a high of 77 degrees Fahrenheit.  Start time is 7:00 AM.  Registration includes a Pasta Dinner in downtown State College the day before the race. Read comments from runners of the Inaugural Marathon HERE.


    marathon1Start & Finish:
     Medlar Field Baseball Stadium on the Penn State University main campus (near Beaver Stadium) — State College, PA.  Google map HERE.  The Stadium is a beautiful new facility with plenty of restrooms and a covered concourse in case of inclement weather.  There are lots of seats with a great view of Mt. Nittany for those waiting for runners to finish.  Pre and Post-race refreshments will be available here.

    Date: Sunday, August 31, 2014

    Start Time: 7:00 AM     Course timing stops at 1:00 PM.

    Course Map: Click MtNittanyMarathonCourse for a complete map with turn-by-turn directions.
    Based on projected registration dates the Mt. Nittany Marathon will be a last-chance qualifier for the 2015 Boston Marathon (USATF Certification Code: PA14045WB.  Certified course map available here: http://www.usatf.org/events/courses/maps/showMap.asp?courseID=PA14045WB).  For an elevation profile of the course, click HERE to access a map on MapMyRun.com.

    Entry Fee: $75.00 until August 17, 2014.

    Registration: Closed.

    Hotels: Need a place to stay?  Click HERE for a list of local hotels that are offering SPECIAL RATES for Marathon weekend!

    Pasta Meal before the race! — Saturday, August 30, 2014 in downtown State College!  Registered Marathon Runners receive a coupon for a FREE pasta meal consisting of a pasta dish, bread and a non-alcoholic beverage (or a $7.50 credit towards a higher-priced meal) at a participating restaurant.  Click HERE for the complete list of participating restaurants!

    VOLUNTEERS!!   We need YOU!!  NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!   Volunteer for the marathon, help preserve Mt. Nittany, AND get a FREE T-shirt!  Click HERE for the chart of all our Volunteer needs. Or email John Hook at John@MtNittany.org and we’ll get you signed up!

    Marathon Entry Fees Include:

    • Long-Sleeve Synthetic Shirt
    • Pasta meal the day before the race
    • Finisher Medal
    • On-Course Refreshments (Water and “ade” drink; Gels at selected Stations)
    • Post-Race Food and Refreshments
    • Disposable ChampionChips with bib identifiers

    Eligibility: To compete in the Mt. Nittany Marathon you must be at least 18 years of age.

    Pacing Requirements: All athletes entering the Marathon must maintain a 14-minute per mile pace or faster throughout the entire race and finish within 6 (six) hours. Anyone not able to maintain a 14-minute per mile pace may continue the course, but be there is no guarantee of aid station, course marshal or police officer availability. Click HERE for a chart of the mile and water station splits necessary to maintain this pace.

    Packet Pick-Up Location & Times:

    • Saturday, August 30, 2014: 1:00 – 5:00 PM, Centre County/Penn State Visitor Center, 800 Park Ave., State College, PA 16803 (corner of Park Ave. & Porter Road – enter parking lot from Porter Road)
    • Sunday, August 31, 2013: Race site (Medlar Field at Lubrano Park) starting at 5:30 AM.

    Race Day Parking: There is plenty of free parking in paved lots around Beaver Stadium, the Bryce Jordan Center and Medlar Field, all within a hundred yards of the Start/Finish line.

    Cancellation Policy: Registration fees for the 2014 Mt. Nittany Marathon are non-refundable and non-transferable.

    Safety Reminder: For the safety of yourself and the other participants, baby joggers, strollers, baby carriers, baby backpacks, inline skates, motorized scooters, bicycles, skateboards, canes, crutches, walkers, walking sticks and animals of any kind are prohibited from the course. If you are seen in violation of one of these you will be removed from the course and transported to the finish. Headphones are discouraged due to traffic patterns throughout the course that require complete attention to ensure your safety.

    Bib Numbers: Each runner will be issued a bib number at Packet Pick-Up. It is the responsibility of the runner to wear the bib number during the race. The bib identifies you as a runner to both the volunteers and law enforcement and safety officials.

    Timing & Results: The Mt. Nittany Marathon is a timed event. The disposable ChampionChips timing system will be used with both a start and finish sensor to provide an accurate result for every participant and to eliminate a need to rush the start. A link to results will be posted on this page following the conclusion of the race.

    Weather: The race will be held rain or shine. If there is lightning in the area the race will either have a delayed start or, depending on the intensity of the weather, be cancelled. The determination will be made by the Marathon organizers. Runner and Volunteer safety will not be compromised.

    Awards: Top 3 Overall Male and Female winners will receive awards at a presentation at the conclusion of the race on Sunday, August 31, 2014. Please note overall awards are based on Gun Time.

    Age Group Award certificates will be distributed by mail after the event. (Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.) Age Group and any additional awards will be based on Net Time. A runner will not receive two awards for the same race result.

    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION or QUESTIONS: Contact John Hook, President of the Mount Nittany Conservancy at John@MtNittany.org.

    HISTORY OF THE MARATHON: Click HERE for info on the 2013 Inaugural Mt. Nittany Marathon.

  • Inaugural Marathon Post-Race Runner Comments

    Following are unsolicited email comments we received from runners after the race:

    “…thought it went great.”

    “Thanks for all your and the volunteers’ efforts in putting on a great experience!”

    “Mt Nittany was my first marathon. The course was beautiful, the volunteers were outstanding, the water/aid stations plentiful! I appreciate your efforts and those of all the volunteers. I fully anticipate making it an annual race to participate in for as long as it continues.”

    “…enjoyed your 1st marathon!  The course was lovely and the efforts of everyone involved were greatly appreciated.”

    “Our congratulations on putting together a very fine event. From our viewpoint, everything seemed wholly planned and well executed.”

    “Thanks for a well run marathon, a little challenging to say the least, but well done.”

    “Thanks for organizing a great race yesterday. It was a lot of fun.”

    “Although I dropped out halfway through I really enjoyed your race. It was very well supported and the volunteers were fantastic! My only suggestion would be to start at 6 or 7 am next year. Thanks for starting a great new race!”

    “Congratulations on a successful inaugural event! From what I saw, everything went very well (aside from the weather). There were lots of people along the course, it was well marked, and there was plenty of water and Gatorade. State College really came out to support the marathon and your volunteers deserve huge thanks!”

    “Thank you very much for you and your teams hard work.  The marathon was a beautiful challenging course.  It was extremely well run and the support was fabulous.  Despite the weather being a few degrees too warm I would highly recommend this to any of my fellow runners.”

    “Great tough course, great support, amazing volunteers, under really tough weather conditions!! Thanks for putting this on!”

    “I wanted to take the opportunity to say thanks for putting on such a great event. I think it went really well. The course was well marked, there were plenty of aid stations and volunteers to make for a smooth run. Not to mention, the whole race and event just had a good vibe. Everyone just seemed glad to be there and happy to have the chance to run some miles on a challenging, but familiar course.”

    “The race was great and wonderfully organized with all the volunteers and made the course easy to follow. Thanks again.”

    “Very nicely run race for being the 1st. You and your committee obviously spent a lot of time thinking of what was needed for a smooth race and getting it organized. Plenty of great volunteers that were extremely supportive!! I also really enjoyed the community based aid stations (music, water sprinkler, drinks and fun people to make us smile when smiling was the last thing we runners thought about doing).”

    “Thank you very much… for all of your work in directing the marathon!  It was a great event, and wonderful to be able to run a ‘home town’ marathon”

    “Enjoyed the race and am so happy to have accomplished my goals (to finish and not walk)!   Your crew was incredibly supportive and that was really great.  Their yellow shirts made them easy to spot too.   Stonebridge neighborhood was awesome…especially the lady with the sprinkler in her yard that she let me run through!  Police assistance was excellent–did not have to wait at a single intersection.  Can’t say enough about such a great and memorable first marathon experience!  Thank you!!!”

    “Great, great work making this happen. I hope to see it continue in the years to come.”

    “I just wanted to say thank you for a wonderful run on Sunday. I truly hope this becomes a yearly tradition. Great route, great volunteers, excellent water stops and aid stations – and FINALLY, an affordable marathon. Thank you…”

    “Thank you for all the work you did…! [Name’s] first marathon, & despite be hot & humid, he plans to train & run again next year & improve his time & endurance…”

    “…everyone had a lot of fun at the marathon this past Sunday. We are hoping you guys do the marathon again next year.”

    “Spectators and volunteers are soul restorers and Happy Valley has some of the best.”

  • Mt. Nittany Marathon

    Mt. Nittany Marathon

    The inaugural Mt. Nittany Marathon has run its course. The Conservancy would like to extend a huge THANK YOU to all the runners, volunteers, and sponsors who made the event a success.

    The hot, humid day made it a tough course but the supportive volunteers at water stops and all of the turns were great and really helped out the runners. We heard that there were a few impromptu stations as well along the course. In addition to the water, Gatorade and gels provided for the race, volunteers brought their own snacks, watermelon, cookies, and candy for the runners.

    Thanks again to the people of our wonderful community.

    A total of 138 runners completed the marathon with 43 female and 95 male finishers.

    Open Men
    1. AJ Kelly, 31, Altoona, PA (2:45:48)
    2. Thomas Rudowsky, 20, Lexington Park, MD (2:57:35)
    3. Richard Koubek, 24, State College, PA (2:58:46)

    Open Women
    1. Kathryn Koetje-Simin, 42, State College, PA (3:32:15)
    2. Jessica Sarnicola, 33, New York, NY (3:33:55)
    3. Becky Wittrig, 45, Port Matilda, PA (3:39:40)

    Click here for Full Race Results (PDF) or click here for Marathon Images.

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    Image: Tom Shakely

  • Mount Nittany Marathon 2013

    The 2013 Mount Nittany Marathon is in the books!!!!  Congratulations to all the runners and THANK YOU to the hundreds of wonderful Volunteers and our fantastic Sponsors!!

    Race results are posted on the Nittany Valley Running Club website HERE.

    Volunteer Jerry Harrington took pictures of most of the runners between mile 16 & 17.  They are posted on Filckr HERE.

    Photographer Richie Sherman took photos along the marathon route.  They are posted on SmugMug HERE

    Runner Tom Shakely blogged about his experience HERE. 

    _________________________________________________________________________________

    The Mt. Nittany Marathon is a scenic 26.2 mile certified course winding around the area of its namesake – Mt. Nittany. Utilizing local bike paths and roadways, the inaugural marathon is on a Sunday morning in September when historical average temperatures range from a low of 50 degrees to a high of 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Based on current qualifying dates, the Mt. Nittany Marathon will also serve as a last-chance qualifier for the 2014 Boston Marathon (USATF Certification Code: PA13044WB.  Certified course map available here: http://www.usatf.org/events/courses/maps/showMap.asp?courseID=PA13044WB).

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    Start & Finish: Medlar Field at Lubrano Park on the Penn State University main campus near Beaver Stadium,  State College, PA.  Google map HERE.

    Date: Sunday, September 1, 2013

    Time: 8:00 AM

    COURSE MAP: Click MtNittanyMarathonCourse (Other versions: One-Page color with Water Stations Marathon_Course; or click the following for a MapMyRun version: http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/272179557

    Cost: $50 before May 31, 2013; $75 from June 1 – Aug. 16, 2013. Deadline is August 16, 2013.

    Registration is Closed (Entry Deadline was August 16, 2013 — See you next year!)

    Registered Runner List: Click HERE

    Need a place to stay?  Click HERE for a list of local hotels and B&B’s that are offering SPECIAL RATES for Marathon weekend!

    Pasta Dinner before the race! — Saturday evening, August 31, 2013 is America’s Longest Pasta Table in downtown State College!  Come be part of the record!  Registered Marathon Runners receive a 50% discount — only $5.00 per person.

    VOLUNTEERS!!   We need YOU!!  NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!   Volunteer for the marathon, help preserve Mt. Nittany, AND get a FREE T-shirt!  Click Marathon_Volunteer_Needs to see the different opportunities available, then email John Hook at John@MtNittany.org with your preference and we’ll get you signed up!

    Marathon Entry Fees Include:

    • Long-Sleeve Women’s or Men’s Tech Shirt
    • Commemorative Inaugural Mt. Nittany Certificate
    • On-Course Refreshments (Water and Gatorade at every “Station”; Gel at Stations 3/5) and Post-Race Food and Refreshments
    • Disposable ChampionChips with bib identifiers

    On Course Refreshments/Aid Stations: Approximately every other mile starting at just beyond the 3 mile mark.  11 stations total: 3.5 miles; 6.1 miles; 8.6 miles; 11 miles; 13.6 miles; 15 miles; 17.1 miles; 19 miles; 21.5 miles; 23.1 miles; 24.9 miles.  Porta-Potty(ies) available at 3.5 miles, 6.1 miles, 21.5 miles & 23.1 miles.

    Eligibility: To compete in the Mt. Nittany Marathon you must be at least 18 years of age.

    Pacing Requirements: All athletes entering the Marathon must maintain a 16-minute per mile pace or faster throughout the entire race and finish within 7 (seven) hours. Anyone not able to maintain a 16-minute per mile pace may be picked up and transported to the finish. You may be picked up at any point along the course for not maintaining a 16-minute per mile pace. We suggest you train for a 15-minute per mile pace or faster to allow time for breaks (restroom breaks, refreshment stops, etc.).

    Packet Pick-Up Location & Times:

    • Saturday, August 31, 2013: 1:00 – 4:00 PM, Centre County/Penn State Visitor Center, 800 Park Ave., State College, PA 16803 (corner of Park Ave. & Porter Road – enter parking lot from Porter Road)
    • Saturday, August 31, 2013: 5:00 – 7:00 PM, Registration tent at America’s Longest Pasta Table, corner of Pugh Street and Calder Alley, downtown State College
    • Sunday, September 1, 2013: Race site (Medlar Field at Lubrano Park) starting at 6:00 a.m.

    Race Day Parking: There is plenty of free parking in paved lots around Beaver Stadium, the Bryce Jordan Center and Medlar Field, all within a few hundred yards of the Start/Finish line.

    Waiver/Packet Pick-Up: To pick up your race packet prior to race day, you must bring a Photo ID. No exceptions will be made. If someone else is picking up your packet, the individual picking up on your behalf must provide his/her Photo ID and a copy of your Photo ID.

    Cancellation Policy: Registration fees for the 2013 Mt. Nittany Marathon are non-refundable.

    Safety Reminder: For the safety of yourself and the other participants, baby joggers, strollers, baby carriers, baby backpacks, inline skates, motorized scooters, bicycles, skateboards, canes, crutches, walkers, walking sticks and animals of any kind are prohibited from the course. If you are seen in violation of one of these you will be removed from the course and transported to the finish. Headphones are discouraged due to traffic patterns throughout the course that require complete attention to ensure your safety.

    Bib Numbers: Each runner will be issued a bib number at Packet Pick-Up. It is the responsibility of the runner to wear the bib number during the race. If a runner is seen without their bib number while running on the course, they will be removed from the course for security and safety reasons.

    Timing & Results: The Mt. Nittany Marathon is a timed event. The disposable ChampionChips timing system will be used with both a start and finish sensor to provide an accurate result for every participant and to eliminate a need to rush the start. A link to results will be posted on this page following the conclusion of the race.

    Weather: The race will be held rain or shine. If there is lightning in the area the race will either have a delayed start or, depending on the intensity of the weather, be cancelled. The determination will be made by the Marathon organizers. Runner and Volunteer safety will not be compromised.

    Lightning Policy: Marathon operations will shut down when lightning is 5 miles out from the event areas. Operations will not resume until the lightning is 5 miles out moving away from the event areas. Marathon organizers will determine this using the “Flash to Bang Rule” and weather radar. The Organizers will determine a course of action: to operate in the weather, delay the event, or cancel the event. The “Flash to Bang Rule” is applied by measuring the time (in seconds) between a visual lightning “Flash” and hearing the resulting “Bang”. This time is then divided by a factor of “5” to obtain distance in miles. For example, 25 seconds between “Flash” and “Bang” divided by “5” equals 5 miles.

    Awards: Top 3 Overall Male and Female winners will receive awards at a presentation at the conclusion of the race on Sunday, September 1, 2013. Please note overall awards are based on Gun Time.

    Age Group and any additional awards will be distributed by mail after the event. (Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.) Age Group and any additional awards will be based on Net Time. A runner will not receive two awards for the same race result.

    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION or QUESTIONS: Contact John Hook, President of the Mount Nittany Conservancy at John@MtNittany.org.

  • Mount Nittany Night 2012

    Mount Nittany Night 2012

    On September 28th more than 60 people gathered to celebrate our 3rd annual Mount Nittany Night at the Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery. Our guests enjoyed specific food pairings from local caterers to go with the winery’s vintages.

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    Ken Reeves

    The Friend of the Mountain award, which honors a person or group based on contributions of talent, time, and resources on behalf of the Mountain, was awarded posthumously to Emeritus Board member Ken Reeves. Ken was an integral part of the founding of the Mount Nittany Conservancy in 1981 and served as our third President. Ken’s love for the Mountain, his vision for its preservation and conservation, and his knowledge about all that surrounds it, has been an inspiration for all of us who have the honor of serving the Mountain.

    The Mount Nittany Conservancy thanks these event sponsors: