The Gorham Savings Bank Maine Marathon is a great opportunity for runners from the Northeast and beyond to get in some big miles while enjoying the gorgeous coastal scenery of southern Maine. The race will take place on October 5th, 2025, in Portland, ME, a great time of year to enjoy the changing leaves and cool fall temperatures. This year, runners will also be able to dedicate their miles to a great cause—ending ALS—by fundraising for the ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI).

Running for a Cause

This has been made possible through the Maine Marathon’s Run for a Cause program. Run for a Cause allows anyone signing up for the race to easily select from several charitable organizations to support. Runners commit to raising at least $200 for their chosen charitable partner and receive a discount on their registration fee. Participation is open to any of the Marathon’s distance options, which include:

  • Full 26.2 mile marathon.
  • 1 mile half-marathon.
  • 2 marathon relay, in which two to four runners can cover the distance as a team.
  • Virtual options, including a marathon, half marathon, marathon relay, 10k, and 5k, which can be completed from anywhere.

How to Support ALS TDI

To sign up to support ALS TDI, simply register for the race on Maine Marathon webpage here. After entering your information, you can select ALS TDI from a list of available charity partners. You will then be provided with a personal fundraising page that you can share with friends, family, and on social media to collect donations and raise crucial funds to help end ALS.

What is ALS?

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects motor neurons, leading to a loss of muscle function. Approximately 1 in 400 people will develop ALS in their lifetime, and the average life expectancy following diagnosis is just three to five years. Despite its devastating impact, ALS research remains underfunded. For most people with ALS, there are no effective treatments or cures, but researchers at ALS TDI are working relentlessly to change that.

ALS Research at ALS TDI

The ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI) is the world’s foremost nonprofit biotech company dedicated solely to ALS research. With 87 cents of every dollar raised directly funding research, ALS TDI focuses on discovering and developing effective treatments for everyone with ALS. Led by drug development experts and people with ALS, we work to fill the ALS clinical pipeline with promising drugs and advance ALS research around the world. Your support fuels research to end ALS.

About Portland

The Maine Marathon takes place in Portland, ME, the biggest city in Maine and an excellent destination for visiting New England in the Fall. The city's historic Old Port district is particularly inviting this time of year, with its cobblestone streets and waterfront views providing the ideal setting for a scenic stroll. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, especially Maine lobster, at one of the many renowned restaurants, or take a harbor cruise to experience the stunning fall colors from the water. October is prime time for leaf-peeping in nearby spots like Cape Elizabeth and Bradbury Mountain State Park, making Portland an excellent base for exploring the breathtaking New England landscape.

To learn more and sign up for the Gorham Savings Bank Maine Marathon, click here.

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