Compete for a Cause Sept. 20 - Funds Raised for Marathon for a Better Life

By Matthew Avitabile

MIDDLEBURGH — Marathon for a Better Life will be holding Compete for a Cause to raise money for its operations against cancer Sept. 20 at Timothy Murphy Park. Registration is at 10:30 and events kick off at 11am. There is a rain date for the 21st.

We spoke to Marathon’s Janet Rose.

The organization considered something “a little different” and “fun” to raise money. The idea became a competition with teams of four which includes axe-throwing, bean bag toss, balance beam, and a relay race.

Marathon is looking for four-person teams to take part in the timed events. The organization would like to build community camaraderie. Rose is part of a team with her family and further seeks public input, especially from first responders.

If you don’t have a team, you’re welcome to come. There will be individual contests, as well.

There will be a food vendor and music the day of the event.

If the event takes off, Marathon hopes to continue it each year.

There will be further events later in the year, including the annual boxwood tree making Dec. 7 and the Bowl A Thon in Feb. 2026. The Boxwood Tree making will allow families to create a Christmas tree out of boxwood, which promises to be a day "of light snacks, conversation, and friendship that has become a tradition for many, but we always have room for new faces to join us." The Bowl A Thon will include bowling three games at Middleburgh Lanes.

There will also be a raffle next Spring with details to be released at a later date.

For more information, check out Marathon's Facebook page, email rosefamily@midtel.net or chichester443@gmail.com, or visit www.marathonforabetterlife.org.