Marion Marathon Brought in More Than You'd Expect for a First-Time Event

For a first-crack at a big event, organizers say they are pleased with the numbers. 

The area's first-ever marathon - Marion Rotary Marathon for Shoes - drew 957 participants from 26 different states and three countries. 400 volunteers came together to put it on

The big number was the money raised for the local charity, Shoes for Kids, said Nick Glew, the chairman for marketing and sponsorships for the event.

"We were very pleased," Glew said. "The reality is most of these events in their first year don't make money, so we were pleased to raise $16,100 in the first year."

Glew said the turnout from participants and volunteers served as a great gauge for how many people they can handle, and to help plan as the event grows.

Glew said it they surveyed participants and 84 percent said they'd recommend the event to a friend.

"We are just beginning to realize the potential this has for the community," Glew said. "It motivates us as we begin planning for 2013."

Glew said he expects they can double the numbers next year. That date has been set for April 13, 2014.