FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Philadelphia Marathon Sprinting to a Record Registration
Race Weekend Presents Many Options for an
Unforgettable and Fun Experience.
PHILADELPHIA (September 14, 2012) – With nearly two months left to the
start, the 2012 Philadelphia Marathon is expected to reach the highest
registration capacity in its 19-year-history.
More than 25,000 race competitors have registered to participate in the
Philadelphia Marathon Half Marathon and Rothman Institute 8K in November on
the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Registration opened in April and is now
ahead of the record-setting registration total set in 2011.
Race organizers are not surprised by the banner pace based on the race's
steady growth in recent years.
"The high registration numbers at this point in the process is a testament
of how popular our race has become," said Melanie Johnson, Executive
Director of the Marathon. "We've made a commitment to expanding the race
experience for our participants. Watching our event grow has been very
gratifying. With our current registration numbers on pace to exceed 2011's
record, it gives more reason to deliver an unforgettable time for our
runners, race partners, volunteers and spectators."
Johnson added that race organizers have enhanced the athletic experience
through collaborations with hotels, restaurants, charitable groups,
businesses and government organizations to create a true community event.
"The partnerships with these valuable entities have helped turn our event
and city into a destination place showcasing Philadelphia's best
offerings," she said.
Even though spaces are filling up for many of the races, there still are
attractive options for those runners interested in shorter distances
through the Rothman Institute 8K and -- for the younger members in the
family – the Kids Fun Run – both on Saturday, November 17. The Rothman
Institute 8K offers newcomers a race that is challenging yet not
overwhelming.
"The Rothman Institute 8K is a great introduction to an endurance race,"
said Johnson. "Runners can register with a friend to experience a unique
race-day atmosphere, but without the total commitment required for a
long-distance competition of 13.1 or 26.2 miles."
In addition, the Kids Fun Run offers a non-competitive event that focuses
on the fun of running and the importance of a healthy lifestyle. The race
follows Mayor Michael A. Nutter's stated goal to take aggressive measures
to overcome youth obesity. Before or after the Kids Fun Run, children and
their families can bond and have fun by engaging in face painting
activities, arts and crafts, and even an obstacle course.
No matter what distance, participants have another incentive to register.
Recently, the Philadelphia Marathon and Generocity formed a partnership to
help race competitors and fans support their favorite charity. Generocity
is an online platform designed to connect people, businesses and charitable
causes in the Philadelphia region. Race participants can choose a
fund-raising goal to raise money and awareness for a charity of their
choice. This year, the Philadelphia Marathon is partnering with 34
charities that help support causes such as finding the cure for disease,
inspiring people to reach their fitness goals and ensuring the
sustainability of the environment. For more information visit
http://www.generocity.org/philadelphia-marathon.
Current registration for the Philadelphia Marathon is $125; $100 for the
Half Marathon; $45 for the Rothman Institute 8K and $15 for the Kids Fun
Run. Prospective race participants are encouraged to sign-up soon. Register
today and experience Running's Best Host CityTM at
www.philadelphiamarathon.com.
More than 27,000 runners and 60,000 spectators will be in Philadelphia, the
city to experience "The Best Time of Your Life" during Marathon Weekend
(Friday, November 16 to Sunday, November 18). In addition to Sunday's
Philadelphia Marathon, Race Weekend offers three races -- the Half
Marathon, the Rothman Institute 8K and the Kids Fun Run. Other activities
to welcome runners, families, friends, volunteers, spectators businesses,
visitors and residents include a free two-day Health & Fitness Expo; a free
course map complete with retail discounts and promotions, and information
on more than 20 spectacular cheer zones. Race participants pass many of
Philadelphia's famous attractions on the swift and scenic USATF-certified
course, which is a Boston qualifier. Take the first step to experiencing
26.2 miles of fun, beauty, history and excitement by visiting
www.philadelphiamarathon.com
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