FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2008 U.S. Air Force Marathon Registration
Figures on Pace to Shatter Last Year's Record
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – If current figures are an accurate
predictor, the 2008 U.S. Air Force Marathon appears well on its way to
shattering last year's registration record of more than 6,700 runners and
could approach the 10,000 mark.
As of June 13, the total number of runners registered for the 12th annual
event stood at 2,326. That compares with 1,013 total registered runners at
the same time a year ago, or about a 130 percent increase.
According to Molly Louden, marathon director, enhanced marketing and
publicity efforts combined with strong word-of-mouth from previous marathon
participants is helping fuel the surge in registration.
"For the past three years, we have stepped up marketing," Louden said.
"We've consistently attended regional marathon expos and advertised in
national magazines.
"Also, word of mouth is a huge factor, and the marathon has received
fantastic reviews from past runners on running blogs like
marathonguide.com."
Registration numbers are confirming high interest in both the full and half
marathon. The June 13 figures show 1,098 runners registered for the full
marathon, compared to 512 for the same time last year; the half marathon
has received 885 registrants, compared to 333 for the same date a year ago.
Louden said that runners planning to participate in this year's marathon
are encouraged to register early, especially considering the significant
increase in registrants to date.
"We are encouraging runners to register early online not only to save
money, but to ensure they get into the event," Louden said. "This is the
first year we might have to close registration due to the number of
registrants. It is very exciting, but our numbers are nearly triple what
they were last year. For planning purposes, we will close registration if
we get near the 10,000 mark."
A prominent change to this year's marathon is the phase-out of the
four-person relay teams and the introduction of a 10k. Runners registering
for the 10k can do so as individuals or can run as part of a four-person
team.
Each 10k team member will start the race at the same time and will end at
the same location. By including a four-person 10k team option in place of
the marathon four-person relay, marathon officials sought to eliminate
challenges such as team members having to wait for buses or searching for
teammates on the course.
For the second straight year, the marathon's 5k will take place the day
before the marathon on Sept. 19 at Wright State University. According to
Louden, the marathon, half marathon and 10k taking place Saturday at
Wright-Patterson Air Force Base will be limited to 10,000 runners, and the
5k at Wright State University will be limited to 2,000 runners.
For more information or to register for the marathon, visit
www.usafmarathon.com.
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