Posted: June 18, 2007

Athletics (RWire): Marine Corps Marathon Announces New Running Event

Half-marathon presented by the Marine Corps Marathon will be held in Fredericksburg, Virginia QUANTICO, Va. - (June 14, 2007) - The Marine Corps Marathon has announced a new half-marathon to be held in Fredericksburg, Virginia in May 2008. In a presentation to the members of the Fredericksburg City Council on Tuesday, June 12, the MCM proposal was supported with enthusiasm and excitement. "Fredericksburg is pleased to be the location for the new half-marathon," said Kevin Gullette, Director of Economic Development and Tourism for the City of Fredericksburg. "This event serves as a tool to strengthen the relationship between the City and the Marine Corps, and we anticipate the inaugural race in 2008 to be the beginning of a long-term event the City is proud to host." The 13.1 mile course will be held entirely within Fredericksburg city limits, beginning and ending at the Fredericksburg Convention Center. The Sunday, May 18, 2008 event will be open to a race field of approximately 5,000 participants. Registration details will be announced in Fall 2007. "The Marine Corps Marathon team is excited about the partnership between Marine Corps Base Quantico and the Fredericksburg community," said Rick Nealis, Race Director. "I am confident this new event will bring a significant economic impact to the area by promoting tourism, businesses, the city's historic and scenic sights and, of course, the local running community." The new half-marathon is the first time in MCM history that the organization will hold a running event outside of traditional race weekend. Founded in 1976, the Marine Corps Marathon is currently the 4th largest marathon in the U.S. and the 7th largest marathon in the world. Known for a commitment to excellence and impeccable organization, the Marine Corps Marathon brings 32 years of planning experience to the creation of this new running event. Visit: MarineMarathon.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