Huntsville, Ontario, October 5, 2025
News Summary
The Muskoka Novel Marathon concluded its 2025 event in Huntsville, showcasing nearly forty writers who raised over $15,000 for literacy programs. Kathleen May won the Best Novel award for ‘The Last Earthers’, while the event included a new Spanish Division to promote inclusivity. The Marathon, now in its 15th year, has established itself as a vital fundraiser for local literacy initiatives.
Huntsville, Ontario – The Muskoka Novel Marathon (MNM) successfully concluded its 2025 event, held from July 10-13 at the Port Sydney Community Hall. This year’s Marathon, which gathered nearly forty writers who wrote for a total of 72 hours, achieved remarkable fundraising results and showcased diverse literary talent.
The final celebration took place on September 20, 2025, at the Huntsville office of YMCA Employment & Literacy Services. A total of $15,128.50 was raised to support the YMCA’s literacy programs in Muskoka, which include essential services like English as a Second Language (ESL) classes and citizenship preparation available free of charge for residents, particularly newcomers to the area.
Danielle Neilson, the Event Coordinator for the YMCA, commended the writers for their dedication and emphasized the significant positive impact of the event on the community. The Marathon celebrated its 15th year, establishing itself as a continual fundraiser for literacy programs in the region.
This year, the event featured an exciting twist with the addition of the first Spanish contingent, where five Latina writers competed for a separate Spanish language Best Novel award. The Spanish Division was coordinated by Pilar Miralles and aimed to enhance participation and support for Latin writers at future events.
The highlight of the awards presented at the final celebration was the Best Novel award, given to Kathleen May for her novel titled “The Last Earthers”. Cindy Watson received an Honorable Mention with her work “1306”. Tracey Skochil from Arizona made headlines by raising $5,120 through her personal fundraising campaign, smashing previous fundraising records, showcasing how participants went above and beyond to support the mission of the Marathon.
Other notable awards included Jennifer Britton, who was recognized with the B.I.C. (Bum In Chair) Award and Most Prolific Award, having completed an impressive 47,537 words over the event. Additionally, Paula Boon was awarded the Star Volunteer Award, and Melissa Gold received the Techie Award.
This year’s event had a different atmosphere, as many writers opted to stay on-site throughout the Marathon, enhancing community spirit among participants. The next iteration, the 25th Muskoka Novel Marathon, is scheduled for July 16-19, 2026, with registration set to open on March 10, 2026.
Key Details of the Muskoka Novel Marathon 2025
- Event Dates: July 10-13, 2025
- Total Raised for Literacy Programs: $15,128.50
- Participants: Almost forty writers
- Writing Duration: 72 hours
- Best Novel Winner: Kathleen May for “The Last Earthers”
- Honorable Mention: Cindy Watson for “1306”
- Next Event: July 16-19, 2026; Registration opens March 10, 2026
Background of the Event
The Muskoka Novel Marathon has become a cherished tradition over the past 15 years, drawing writers from various backgrounds and fostering a strong community spirit. This initiative not only promotes creativity but also serves as a vital fundraising platform for literacy programs that offer essential services to Muskoka residents. The addition of a separate Spanish language award reflects the event’s commitment to inclusivity and expansion of its participant base.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Muskoka Novel Marathon held in 2025?
The Muskoka Novel Marathon was held from July 10-13, 2025.
How much money was raised during the 2025 Muskoka Novel Marathon?
The total fundraising amount for 2025 was $15,128.50.
What was the winner of the Best Novel award in 2025?
The Best Novel award for 2025 was awarded to Kathleen May for her work titled “The Last Earthers”.
What are the dates for the next Muskoka Novel Marathon?
The 25th Muskoka Novel Marathon is scheduled for July 16-19, 2026, with registration opening on March 10, 2026.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | July 10-13, 2025 |
| Total Funds Raised | $15,128.50 |
| Participants | Almost forty writers |
| Writing Duration | 72 hours |
| Best Novel Winner | Kathleen May for “The Last Earthers” |
| Next Event | July 16-19, 2026 |
| Spanish Division | Inaugurated with five Latina writers competing |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Muskoka 411: Twenty-Fourth Annual Muskoka Novel Marathon – A Resounding Success
- Wikipedia: Literacy
- Muskoka 411: First In-Person Muskoka Novel Marathon in Five Years Celebrates Its Triumphs
- Google Search: Muskoka Novel Marathon
- Muskoka 411: A Swimming Advisory Has Been Issued for Port Sydney Beach
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fundraising
- Muskoka 411: Taxi Driver Charged with Sexual Assault in Gravenhurst
- Google News: Muskoka Literacy Programs
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