The year 2020 seemed to spare no one in hardship, and the Yakima River Canyon Marathon endured its share. Not only did the coronavirus pandemic lead to the cancellation of the 2020 race, the marathon community mourned the untimely passing of longtime race director Lenore Dolphin. The good news is that race organizers have decided to move forward with the race on March 27, 2021. We have done so in consultation with local health authorities, and participants in the marathon and half-marathon will be asked to observe masking and social distancing protocols. Registrants in 2020 who asked to have their entries carried over to 2021 have had their request honored; they do not need to take any further registration action. Entries will be limited to 200 in the marathon and 200 in the half-marathon; once the available slots are filled, registrants will be put on a waiting list. To assure social distancing, the start will be done in waves, and runners will be asked to wear a mask except when competing. Spectators also will need to wear masks at all times. Unfortunately, this year we will not be able to gather indoors for the Friday night pasta dinner/program and the Saturday night potato feed/awards ceremony. Age-group placers may pick up their awards after the race with masking protocols in effect.