FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
St. Francis Puts Best Foot Forward For Indianapolis Monumental Marathon
INDIANAPOLIS - The first-ever Indianapolis Monumental Marathon has a new
running mate for a race that will take participants throughout downtown and
surrounding city streets and landmarks: St. Francis Hospital & Health
Centers.
The Nov. 1 race, now being billed as the "Indianapolis Monumental Marathon
presented by St. Francis Hospital," was announced today (July 8) on the
grounds of the Indiana State Capitol building.
"We are honored to participate in this landmark and high-profile event,"
said Robert J. Brody, St. Francis president and CEO. . "The marathon is an
excellent way to promote health and wellness and is an outstanding
opportunity to reach out to the Indianapolis community."
Proceeds from the marathon will benefit the Indianapolis Public Schools,
the IPS Education Foundation and the Mind Trust and College Summit.
"We are thrilled to welcome St. Francis to help celebrate what our
wonderful city is all about - hospitality, integrity, community and fun,"
said IMM President Carlton Ray. "Our organizing team is made up of local
runners, community leaders and event planners who understand the thrill of
participating in, as well as witnessing, an epic feat such as the
completion of a marathon."
The event features a full marathon (26.2 miles) and a half marathon (13.1
miles). Both courses will begin near Washington and West streets and will
end their trek on on Robert D. Orr Drive to the finish line, 200 yards east
of West Street.
The urban courses will be sanctioned and certified by the standards of USA
Track and Field, the national body of road racing, with the marathon course
serving as a qualifier for the 2009 Boston Marathon. Organization and
administration will be conducted by Ken Long & Associates, a highly
regarded training, road racing and consulting organization.
Long was formerly the race director for a nationally acclaimed running
event, the Indianapolis 500 Festival Mini Marathon.
Bob Kennedy, who serves as IMM's honorary chair, also was on hand for the
news conference. The former Olympian long-distance, co-owner of The Running
Company, also welcomed St. Francis, adding that its participation is an
example of community support for the marathon.
"A talented group of civic-minded individuals with backgrounds in event
management, sales, engineering, local government operations, education and
charitable giving are developing a national destination marathon here in
Indianapolis," Kennedy said. "The core goals are to develop a
well-organized, well-supported marathon and half marathon; to help others
lead a healthier lifestyle through exercise; and to help Indianapolis youth
improve their quality of life including pursuing higher education."
To register for the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon or to learn more about
the event and its organization, go to www.monumentalmarathon.com.
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