The 21st annual Lost Dutchman Marathon, half marathon, 10K and 8K trail tun return to Apache Junction and Gold Canyon on Sunday, Feb. 20. A 2-mile Fun Run will take place in Apache Junction on Saturday, Feb. 19th.

Runners are welcome to participate in the 26.2 mile marathon, while walkers and runners may register for any of the shorter distances.

Start line for the 26.2-mile marathon will be at the Peralta Trailhead. The marathon will then wind its way through Gold Canyon and then proceeds along scenic back roads to the finish line in Prospector Park in Apache Junction. The shorter races originate from and return to Prospector Park in Apache Junction.

All proceeds from the non-profit Lost Dutchman events will benefit several local youth groups and organizations. To date the Lost Dutchman races have contributed more than $733,000 to these causes.

A Lost Dutchman Running and Fitness Exposition will be held 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 19, at the Apache Junction Multi-Generational Center, 1035 N. Idaho Road. Runners, walkers and their friends are all welcome to attend this free sports, running and fitness event where they can meet other runners and race organizers, discuss race courses, register for any of the events, and pick up their bib number and T-shirt.

All race registrants receive post-race refreshments and a long-sleeved Lost Dutchman T-shirt. In addition, all finishers in the marathon, half marathon, 10K and 8K trail run will receive a colorful high-quality finisher medal.

Those interested in participating in any of the events may register on the Lost Dutchman Marathon website at lostdutchmanmarathon.org.

And all readers of Independent newspapers may enter the code NEWS1022 when registering online in order to receive a 10% discount off of any race distance selected. All participants may also register for any of the events on Saturday, February 19 at the Running and Fitness Exposition in Apache Junction.

Editor’s note: Rick Hardina is a volunteer with Lost Dutchman Marathon.