FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RIDING EMOTION FROM SUCCESSFUL RACE, CLOSE TO
2,000 PEOPLE REGISTER FOR 2009 EVENT
REGISTRATION FEES OFFERED AT MAJOR DISCOUNT,
PARTICIPANTS REGISTER AT RECORD PACE
MIAMI (January 30, 2008) – Following the most successful marathon in South
Florida's history, runners from across the country are already registering
for one of the top winter destination marathons in the US. Two days after
10,000 runners and walkers competed in the ING Miami Marathon and Half
Marathon, registration opened offering fees as low as $27.50 for the half
marathon and $40 for the full marathon. In the first 36 hours, registration
had reached close to 2,000 entries for the 7th annual race on January 25,
2009. The first week of registration- known as the "registration blitz,"
runs through 11:59 PM EST on Tuesday, February 5. Last year, the week-long
blitz drew 1,600 entrants, surpassed in the first 24-hours this year.
The 2008 race, recently named one of the "Top Races to Run" by Runner's
World magazine and a "Top Winter Destination Race" by USA Today, provided
runners with a positive and memorable experience running through Miami
Beach, Downtown, Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne and other parts of Miami on
one of the most scenic courses in the country. Post-race media coverage and
participant feedback for the race, which was run under perfect weather
conditions, have focused on the well organized course with water stations,
food and entertainment plus a great spectator, volunteer and police
presence. Runners were awarded a unique medal that featured a diamond
rhinestone amongst a spinning palm tree and two one carat diamonds were
randomly awarded to registrants.
The 2009 event, which organizers expect should see a seventh consecutive
year of growth, is slated for Sunday, January 25. Organizers, who each year
have added programs to get the community of runners and spectators
involved, our planning on drawing even more spectators through new outreach
programs. In the next year, PR Racing Miami will announce several
initiatives to enhance running in the community and expand the number of
people who participate and support the race. This year, spectatorship was
at it's highest, and organizers are satisfied to see that the event has
received tremendous support from the people. The 2008 event is estimated to
have an economic impact of $18 million, though a study will be conducted
with findings release in the spring.
Current registration for the 2009 ING Miami Marathon and Half Marathon is
30% off until 11:59 PM EST on Tuesday, February 5. Half marathon entry fees
are $38.50 and full marathon fees are $56. After the blitz, registration
returns to $55 and $80 respectively. To register or get more information,
call 305-278-8668 or go to www.ingmiamimarathon.com.
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