Press Release - Antarctica Marathon - 2/26/05

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                   Contact:  Thom Gilligan
                                                  Marathon Tours and Travel
                                                  (617) 242-7845
 
                                                  Patrice Malloy
                                                  Malloy Marketing Group
                                                  (760) 635-2833
    
               RECORD FIELD FINISHES 7TH ANTARCTICA MARATHON

KING GEORGE ISLAND, ANTARCTICA (February 26, 2005) - A record field of 179 
marathoners from 15 countries completed the 7th Antarctica Marathon on King 
George Island, Antarctica amid above freezing temperatures and light 
breezes. The Antarctica marathon and Half Marathon was held on February 26, 
2005.

Darryn Zawith of Gibsonia, PA led all finishers in a time of 3:49:19 while 
Alyn Park of Vail, Colorado was first for the women in 4:33:28.

The warm temperatures mired the course in parts with thick mud that created 
an unusual hazard that sucked the shoes off more than one participant. The 
semi-annual event started at the Russian research base, Bellingshausen, on 
King George Island, the largest of the South Shetland Islands just off the 
Antarctica Peninsula. The = mile ascent of Collins Glacier at mile 3 was 
the most demanding section of the two-loop course. Most runners were slowed 
to a walk up the 17-degree slope.

Dr. William Tan of Singapore, the first wheelchair competitor to attempt 
the grueling course, did complete the half-marathon held in conjunction 
with the marathon in 5:40:41. Despite customized mountain bike tires 
adapted to his racing chair, the wet and muddy conditions prevented him 
from completing the full 26.2 miles.

The half-marathon was won by Jane Serues of Springtown, PA in 2:13:08. She 
was followed by a field of 36 runners. Base staff from both the Russian 
base and Chilean bases participated in the only sporting event held in 
Antarctica. Complete results will be posted to 
www.marathontours.com/antarctica on March 10.

The next  Antarctica Marathon is scheduled for February 24, 2007. For more 
information call (617) 242-7845, visit www.marathontours.com or write to 
. 

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