Maine Endurance Sports Alliance Announces Transition of Race Operations

New nonprofit organization assumes oversight of Maine endurance races previously managed by Lifestyle Sports Global

Bangor, ME — February, 2, 2026

The Maine Endurance Sports Alliance (MESA) announces that race operations previously managed by Lifestyle Sports Global are now officially overseen by MESA, a newly formed 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting safe, inclusive, and community-centered endurance events across Maine.

All existing race registrations remain fully valid under the new nonprofit organization. Participants do not need to take any action at this time.

Over the coming weeks, runners, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners will see updates reflecting the transition to MESA, including refreshed race branding and expanded information available at www.mesa-maine.org. As MESA continues to formalize its operational systems, future communications will be issued directly from the organization.

As part of this transition, MESA’s race operations team is actively responding to participant inquiries. The information below addresses many common questions and is also available on the MESA website under Frequently Asked Questions.

Race Operations & Participant Information

Registration Changes
Participants may switch between Full and Half Marathon distances at bib pickup the day prior to the race. Final decisions can be made at that time to accommodate training changes or injuries. Timing partners are prepared to support last-minute adjustments.

Bib Pickup
Bib pickup will take place the day prior to each race. Final details will be shared via email ahead of race weekend.

Finisher Medals
• Full & Half Marathon: All finishers will receive a custom finisher’s medal produced by Ashworth Awards, an American company that also produces medals for the Boston Marathon.
• 10K & 5K: All finishers will receive a finisher’s medal.

Pacers
Official race pacers are not provided. Participants may use personal pacers and should coordinate in advance with the Race Committee.

Course Time Limits
There are no time limits on MESA races. Participants may complete the course at their own pace. Course marshals and support vehicles remain active until the final runner finishes.

Water & Aid Stations
Water stations are placed approximately every three miles and provide water and Gatorade. Personal bottles may be placed at water stations if delivered to the operations tent at least one hour prior to race start.

Bag Drop
A secure bag drop will be available at the operations tent on race day, with retrieval at the finish line.

Accessibility & Inclusion
MESA is committed to inclusive participation and has supported runners with PTSD, visual impairments (with guides), and hearing impairments. Participants with accessibility needs are encouraged to contact the Race Committee in advance.

Medical Support
Medical assistance is available throughout the course, with a medical tent located at the finish line.

Strollers & Headphones
Strollers and headphones are permitted. All courses are open courses, and participants should remain aware of their surroundings.

Parking & Facilities
Parking is available near start/finish areas. Portable restrooms are located at the start/finish and turnaround points.

Spectators
All courses are open to spectators, who may access the course at any time.

Results
Race results will be available at the timing booth and shared on MESA social media channels.

Looking Ahead

MESA looks forward to welcoming runners, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners to the starting line as this new chapter for endurance events in Maine begins.

Additional announcements will be shared through the MESA Newsroom.

The Race Committee
Email: [email protected]
(Official MESA email address forthcoming)