FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kimberlee McKee
(877) 375-2786
Two-Person Relay Added to 2005 Road Runner Akron Marathon
New Training Program Also Available to Runners
AKRON, Ohio - (March 1, 2005) - A two-person relay and a new training
program highlight additions to the 2005 Road Runner Akron Marathon and Team
Relays, slated for Saturday, Oct. 1.
"We have two successful races behind us and we continue searching for ways
to make the race better each year," said Executive Race Director Jim
Barnett. "Some additions this year include a new two-person relay format,
and an innovative, new training program that can prepare new or veteran
runners for any distance our race has to offer."
The two-person relay fills the void for runners interested in a
half-marathon, an event that draws more runners nationally than a full
marathon, according to statistics provided by the Road Running Information
Center. The new half-marathon will also cater to runners needing a long
training run and those looking to increase their distance after competing
in races of shorter distances. It features one runner completing the first
three legs (15.5 miles) and the second runner completing the remaining two
legs (10.7 miles).
"The two-person relay adds a longer distance element for runners who will
not be completing the entire marathon, while keeping the team relay concept
we have cultivated in the first two years of our race," Barnett said.
Registration for a two-person relay is $100. All male, female and co-ed
teams can compete and recognition awards will be given to the top three
teams in each category.
The new training program, offered by Hudson-based running store Vertical
Runner, prepares runners of all levels to compete in the marathon or team
relays. The Vertical Runner Training Group, designed by co-owner Vince
Rucci, is tailored to the individual needs and abilities of runners.
Participants will have access to:
* group training runs
* monthly seminars on topics such as injury prevention, nutrition, training
and proper equipment
* an unlimited resource for advice and guidance through phone and e-mail
* familiarization and tips on completing the Road Runner Akron Marathon
course
The program is scheduled to begin in March. Costs are $125 for marathon
runners, $275 for all members of five-person relay teams, $190 for both
members of a two-person relay team, or $65 for individual members of a
relay team and $100 for an individual member of a two-person relay team. In
addition to a personalized training program, runners will receive a free
race entry, technical t-shirt and 10 percent discount on purchases at
Vertical Runner. Runners can register for the training program by calling
Vertical Runner at (330) 656-1176.
"This local training group is just another example of how the Road Runner
Akron Marathon is keeping true to its goals of promoting health and
wellness," said Barnett. "The program is a great way for new runners to
become acclimated to the sport of running and learn more about health and
fitness. It also is a great way for seasoned runners to set and achieve new
personal goals."
Other new highlights for the 2005 race include:
* An earlier start of 7:30am
* More efficient relay exchange zones, relieving congestion at relay
hand-offs
* Increased marathon prize money for men and women: $6000 first, $3000
second and $1000 third
For more details or to register for the marathon or team relays, visit
www.akronmarathon.org or call (330) 375-2786 (2RUN).
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