By Shereen Siewert

Wausau’s first ultra marathon is underway in Wausau on Saturday, with participants starting at Granite Peak and finishing on The 400 Block.

There, the ultra marathon runners, who will complete either a 15k or 50k race, will be greeted with finish line festivities with food, beer and other festivities. The Allen Brothers Band will perform from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The first finishers are expected at The 400 Block at about 1 p.m., with the course closing at 5 p.m. Participants in the 50K began at 7 a.m., with the 15K runners taking off at noon. Awards for top finishers will be handed out at 5 p.m. for 15k runners and at 6 p.m. for 50k participants.

The 50k adventure consists of two approximate 10-mile loops throughout Rib Mountain terrain. After the first loop, runners will turn around and head in the opposite direction the second time. Fully stocked aid stations are placed approximately every 5 miles. After the second loop, runners take one last trip to the top before completing the remaining 9 miles of marked, traffic controlled roads and pedestrian trails.

The 15k adventure will consist of the 50k route’s final climb and descent onto the road portion.

Wausau’s Harvest Fest, originally planned for The 400 Block, has been moved to the nearby Wausau Center mall due to weather concerns. The fest, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., is a free family-friendly event with games, face painting, fall crafts, and other activities. Children age 10 and younger can receive a free pumpkin with a donation of a nonperishable food item to go to The Neighbor’s Place.