Jarmans Invitational Marathon

Jarmans Invitational Marathon, Crozet Virginia

The Jarmans Invitational Marathon is an out-and-back lap event held in early August near Crozet, Virginia. The course comprises a 2.9 mile climb on Jarmans Gap Road with 1,522 feet of elevation gain, a turnaround, and the same descent. That lap is repeated five times for a total of 29.0 miles and about 7,610 feet of elevation gain and loss.

The road is steep and gravel, with some shaded sections and some in full sun. The summit is a muddy parking area marked by an End State Maintenance sign. Views along the route are described as minimal. The course can include loose dogs, littered Bud Light cans, and a railroad crossing that may or may not be active during the event.

The event is scheduled on the first or sometimes second Saturday of August, so weather often includes high heat and sun exposure and the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms; if storms do not occur the road may be dry and dusty. Aid stations provide warm water and probably some food, but staffing may vary between locations and the top station may be unattended.

There is no parking at the start. Organizers plan shuttle service from the Greenwood Community Center about one mile away and request that participants not use Chiles Peach Orchard for parking. Entry is limited to 65 runners on a first-come, first-served basis with later entries placed on a waitlist; a small fee of $10 is charged to open the waitlist and help cover portable toilet, supplies, and prizes. The Race Committee reserves 20 discretionary picks and aims to keep the final field near 70. Prizes are awarded to overall male and female winners and to age group winners. Organizers warn that finishing the event can cause substantial physical strain and possible patellar tendonitis lasting several months. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.