A full field of 500 runners hailing from 38 states and 3 countries will arrive in Munising this weekend for the 9th Annual Grand Island Trail Marathon. The course follows the classic route with a tour up along Murray Bay before venturing out on the Tombolo to mile 4 where runners ascend up into the island’s thumb, through a tunnel of trees. This section is an out an back and runners return to the 4 mile junction, now 7 miles into the race. A short board walk from here brings runners to the shores of Trout Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the entire Lake Superior basin. One mile later runners head inland and the climb up to the East Rim Trail. A few miles later brings runners views of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore as they run atop cliffs. Runners reach North Beach, the most remote portion of the course, crossing the bridge over North Light Creek. A climb brings runners up to the 16 mile aid station. The tour down the west coast of the island begins here, with spectacular overlooks and remarkable Jacobsville sandstone formations. A gradual descent brings runners into the 22 mile aid station. The last four miles are relatively flat and along the coast. Treasure Beach is encountered at mile 25 before turning inland for the final mile. With 200 meters remaining runners turn on to the dirt forest road that brings them past cheering spectators and to the finish line. Sixty meters past the finish runners find a lovely sand beach and refreshing Lake Superior. Photos of the 2012 event are available for viewing. Sponsors of the 2013 Grand Island Trail Marathon include Patagonia Footwear and Hammer Nutrition. All runners in the half and full marathon will receive finisher medallions custom crafted from maple hardwood by craftsman John P. Wilson. The top three in each age group for both events will be awarded hand blown glass medallions by artist Rick Shapero including a surprise debut color.