Marathon seeks music in every step

Not many people can make running enjoyable, but Mitch Varnes can by combining upbeat music and eco-friendly marathons together in the Melbourne and Beaches Music Marathon on Feb. 4-5.

“I saw the opportunity to create a weekend running festival that would be good for our community, healthy for all involved and draw people from out of state to our area,” event founder and producer Mitch Varnes said via email.

Not only is this race for dedicated marathoners, but also for people who have lost the ability to run as they participate in the Handcycle marathon. Varnes adds all sorts of races for everyone including a kids’ Ronald McDonald Fun Run.

“I hope to increase an active lifestyle and to show those from out of state and our area just how nice and pretty the Melbourne area is,” Varnes said.

Changes have been made from the previous marathon, as Varnes strives to make it a greener event.

“There is a lot of waste generated with any special event,” Varnes said.”We have put a lot of time and energy into minimizing our waste and are doing it because it is the right thing to do.”

By Desiree Shields