Normally, there's no need to mention registration for an event that is six months away. But the Steamtown Marathon is not an ordinary event.

Runners were able to begin signing up April 1 for the 16th annual race from Forest City to Scranton, and no joke, already 1,613 entrants have registered at www.steamtownmarathon.com.

Cost for the race is $85 and registration will close when 3,000 entries are received. Except for a few spots reserved for elite runners, entries were not taken after mid-May.

"Last year we filled our cap of 2,620 runners on May 19," said Jim Cummings, assistant race director. "We raised the cap to 3,000 for this year but it looks like we will fill before May 19."

One thing more certain than a sellout is that St. Joseph's Center will be the biggest winner of the marathon. Since 1996, proceeds totaling $770,000 have been donated to St. Joseph's Center.

Allied in the fight

The 2012 Allied Services Heinz Rehab annual Autism Classic golf tournament will be played at Huntsville Golf Club in Lehman on June 18, with MotorWorld again sponsoring the event's raffle, which will send two lucky players on the golf vacation of a lifetime.

The purchase of a $100 raffle ticket - only 300 will be sold - will give the winner a December golf vacation to the Lexus Champions for Charity National Championship at Pebble Beach, Spanish Bay and Spyglass golf courses.

Proceeds from the tournament and drawing will be used to treat pediatric patients with autism spectrum disorders and will enhance socialization programs through the volunteer group Parents and Professionals.

For more info, contact Allied Services at 348-1407.

Century of excellence

The Inn at Pocono Manor, where Clarks Summit's Greg Wall is the head professional, is celebrating 100 years of golf this spring, and golfers will be able to take advantage of the event.

A twilight rate of $19.12 - in recognition of the opening of the Donald Ross nine on the East Course - will be in effect after 2 p.m. every Thursday during the months of April, May and June.

Contact the writer: mmyers@timesshamrock.com