Hatcher Pass Marathon and Relay is scheduled for July 6

WILLOW — Slots are already filling for the third annual Hatcher Pass Marathon and Relay, scheduled to start July 6.

Runners may register online for the full marathon or the three-person relay at ultrasignup.com. Registration on race day is also available. Entry fee is $40 online or $60 on race day. Teams pay $120 to enter the relay online or $160 on race day.

The Mat-Su’s only 26.2-mile race begins at the Willow Creek bridge on Shirley Towne Road near Mile 43.25, Willow Fishhook Road. The mostly graveled race course, which features a cumulative elevation gain of almost 4,000 feet, follows Willow Fishhook Road over the summit of the pass and finishes near Independence Mine State Park. The first 25 miles climbs continuously, followed by a steep mile-long descent to the finish line.

Hosted by the Willow Running Club, the race has attracted nearly 100 runners each year, with even more participants expected in 2013. Runners interested in participating should visit the club’s website at willowraceseries.com, look up Willow Race Series on Facebook or email race organizer Yvonne Leutwyler at yvonneleutwyler@yahoo.com to learn more about this event.