Posted: March 11, 2007

Athletics: Inspirational Stories at Sold-Out Inaugural ING Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon

ATLANTA - (March 9, 2007) - On Sunday, March 25, professional and amateur racers in the first-ever ING Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon will share more than mileage. They'll share their inspiration and dedication to complete the state's largest long distance running event. With a sold-out field of 15,000 participants, including one of the most competitive elite wheelchair fields this year, the pursuit of every individual will bring a story inspiration for many. "We have incredible stories from local, national and international athletes coming to the race," said Race Director, Victoria Seahorn. "And it's not just our elites with great stories to share. Some of the most inspirational moments are from the 'everyday athletes' who have decided to take on of our sport's great challenges: the marathon." Nearly 40 percent of race entrants this year are scheduled to take to the 26.2 mile course that winds through downtown and in-town neighborhoods. Here are some of the interesting personalities and personal stories that make the event more than just a marathon: Coming to the race from the Emerald Isle is a group of 32 Irish runners, representing every county in Ireland. They will pursue the 26.2 mile course and add the ING Georgia Marathon to their list of international races completed. South Carolinian and radio personality Rob Dempsey has gone from fat to fit to fast. A mere two years ago, Rob was obese and decided to make healthier changes for himself and his family. In 24 months, he has lost more than 140 pounds and earlier this year he won his age group (35-to-39) at the half-marathon distance. He will turn 40 the day after the race. Local Atlantan, Kathy Velazco, a businesswoman, physician, wife and mother, wasn't content to make the ING Georgia Marathon her 100th marathon; she had to inspire her other five sisters to join her in the pursuit. Inspiring her non-running sisters, the dedicated and close siblings have been sharing training and preparing for the event to support Kathy's efforts, but also to lead healthier lives. Another local Atlantan, Amy Shatten is a 49-year-old cancer survivor who has lost both legs and will complete the half-marathon in a regular wheelchair (as opposed to a racing chair). Currently a patient at Emory University's Rehabilitation Center, Amy has been training for the past several months to get ready for the race and her story is one of determination and inspiration. More human-interest stories surface every day, including those of racers, wheelers, volunteers and others. Visit: INGGeorgiaMarathon.com Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Director (805) 696-6232; Fax = (805) 659-0016 Ryan@RunningUSA.org www.RunningUSA.org. Subscribe to the Runner's Web Weekly Digest