Press Release - Veteran's Marathon - 12/13/11

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

   Columbia City Registration Now Open for 4th Annual Veteran's Marathon

COLUMBIA CITY (December 13, 2011) – Registration is now open to enter the 
4th Annual Veterans Marathon, the 2012 event is honoring the US Air Force. 
Annual Veteran's Marathon scheduled for Saturday November 10th at 8:00am in 
downtown Columbia City, IN.

In its fourth year and growing the Veteran's Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K 
race, that begins and ends at the courthouse square, is bring excitement to 
downtown Columbia City and rural Whitley County. Race director Gary Bird 
said "We are looking to bring 1500 runners in 2012". "We are gaining 
momentum and community support as our event grows larger every year" 
continued Bird.

Runners from all over the country have participated, some have ran all 
previous marathons and look forward to collecting the unique finishing 
medals, shape as the state of Indiana. The middle of the medal changes 
annually with the honoring of the various armed services. 2012 we are 
honoring the US Air Force.

The Veteran's Marathon and Half Marathon course has proven to be fast and 
smooth with a similar climb in elevation to the New York City Marathon. 
Registered as a Boston Marathon qualifier, many runners will attempt to 
secure a sacred spot in the legendary race. In past years the Veteran's 
Marathon has been one of the highest qualifying marathon races in the 
United States with approximately 21% of the runners achieving their 
qualifying time in Columbia City. New standards for qualification were in 
play for 2011 making it more difficult to qualify.

The event is always looking to draw more spectators, volunteers, and 
business participation to honor our veterans. Several aide stations along 
the course have embraced the race, by providing not only aide and safety, 
but a party atmosphere to encourage the runners. Towerview Road is coined 
the "motivation mile" set with the marching band.

See you November 10th 2012!

More information on the race is available at www.veteransmarathon.com

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