FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rim Rock Marathon returns with new features
GRAND JUNCTION, COLO., July 21, 2016 - One of the most scenic marathons in
Colorado returns on Nov. 5, and this year, there's something for every
runner.
The US Bank Rim Rock Marathon, which returns to the Colorado National
Monument (a unit of the National Park Service) on Nov. 5, has twice been
voted Most Scenic Marathon by "Colorado Runner." Runners will start at
Grand Junction, Colo., Gem and Mineral Club, wind up and over the monument
and descend to the finish line at Circle Park in downtown Fruita, Colo. The
course highlights the beauty and magnitude of the Colorado National
Monument's monoliths, canyons and plateaus.
For the first time, the event will feature a downhill half-marathon in the
monument. The event's organizers, led by the Greater Grand Junction Sports
Commission (GGJSC) and Colorado Mesa University (CMU), added the
half-marathon by popular demand.
"The half-marathon is a great addition to the day's lineup," said Jennifer
Stoll, executive director of the GGJSC. "It's going to give more runners
the opportunity to experience this beautiful race and the local
communities."
The event will also feature a marathon relay, and the Fruita Parks and
Recreation Department has brought back the popular Fruita 0.038 Marathon, a
one-mile run for the community. Participants in the shorter races are
invited to stay and cheer on the marathon winners as they cross the finish
line, then enjoy live entertainment, vendors and a beer garden in Circle
Park.
"The City of Fruita is pleased to host the Rim Rock Marathon in our
community," said Fruita Mayor Lori Buck. "With the race finishing downtown,
our community and the runners are able to experience Fruita's great
atmosphere. It's a city where visitors feel like locals and locals play
like visitors."
Proceeds from the race go toward scholarships for student-athletes in CMU's
cross country and track and field programs, as well as the operations of
the nonprofit GGJSC.
"The Greater Grand Junction Sports Commission continues to look for
opportunities to own and/or operate events that aid in the growth of the
commission while supporting partners around the community," commented
Stoll. "The US Bank Rim Rock Marathon has evolved to become a wonderful
example of that collaboration."
Runners may register for the race at rimrockmarathon.com. Registration
costs are $75 through July 31, when they begin to rise until the day of the
event.
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The Greater Grand Junction Sports Commission is a collaborative effort
between Colorado Mesa University, the City of Grand Junction, Mesa County,
the City of Fruita and the Town of Palisade to promote sport tourism in the
community. The organization's mission is to represent the Greater Grand
Junction Area in attracting new and enhancing existing sporting events that
capitalize on our assets, positively impact our economy and community, and
deliver the highest level of customer service.
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