FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Runner and Volunteer Spots Filling Up Fast
for ING Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon Seven Weeks Before Event
More Than 10,000 Registered For Second Annual Race;
Volunteer Positions Filling
(Feb 13, 2008, ATLANTA) – The 2008 ING Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon
reached a major milestone today in registrations with more than 10,000
runners, walkers, and wheelchair athletes signing up for the Sunday, March
30 race. Reaching the 10,000 mark with seven weeks to go, the event is
expected to sell out again with 15,000 participants.
From the race registrations received through Feb. 11, 2008, participants
represent all 50 states and 19 countries, with Georgia residents
representing 79% of the field thus far. Ages of participants range from 14
years to 79 years. The ratio of half marathoners to marathoners is 3-to-1.
With more than 3,000 people already registering for 26.2-mile route, the
ING Georgia Marathon continues to be the largest marathon in the state.
New for 2008, it has been recognized by the Road Runners Club of America
(RRCA) as the State Marathon Championship for Georgia.
"A field of 15,000 allows for a safe race which is of utmost importance."
said Victoria Seahorn, race director of the ING Georgia Marathon & Half
Marathon. "But limiting it to 15,000, we think the size creates a unique
and memorable experience for every racer." Last year's inaugural race,
also limited to 15,000, was the second largest inaugural combo event of
all-time according to Running USA.
On the elite athlete side, 2007 ING Georgia Marathon men's winner Joseph
Chirlee and women's winner Valentina Levushkina are expected to return this
spring. "It's a great course. Every winner last year mentioned the course
and the spectators. It's that winning combination that attracts the elite
and inspires every runner, walker and wheeler,"added Seahorn.
Volunteer Registrations Reach Milestone
The event also looks for 2,500 volunteers for three days of scheduled
events in Atlanta, from the Health & Wellness Expo on March 28 and 29 to
course marshall support on race day. To date, 1,600 people have registered
as volunteers, with 1,000 committing to assist with the 25 Hydration
Stations along the route.
"It's great to have such early interest from volunteers this year,
especially to staff our Hydration Stations along the course. We still have
a big need for course marshals, which is a great way to get a front row
seat for the event. In addition, we are looking for 40-50 runners who can
double-duty at the start area as corral monitors and foot traffic control,
and help organize our wave starts before they take begin their own run,"
said Becky Rentz, director of volunteer programs for the ING Georgia
Marathon & Half Marathon.
All volunteers will receive a t-shirt, goodie bag and a commemorative
souvenir pin. A complete list of volunteer opportunities and sign up is
available online at:
http://www.inggeorgiamarathon.com/Race_Info/Volunteers.htm.
###
|
