Bloomsday Release #2--April 29 2011

Spokane, Washington (April 29, 2011) —Check-In for this Sunday’s 35th annual Lilac Bloomsday Run has begun at the Spokane Convention Center, and volunteers are busy handing out packets and signing up late registrants. Check-in and late registration are available on Friday, April 29th, from 11:30 a.m. until 8:00 p.m., and Saturday, April 30th from 9:00 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. Race entry is not available on Sunday, May 1st, although out-of-town runners who have already entered can pick up their packets between 6:30 and 9:00 a.m. that day.

“The most common question we get is, ‘Can someone else pick up my packet for me?’” said Bloomsday Race Director Don Kardong. “The answer is yes, as long as the person picking up knows the exact name used to register, age and date of birth.”

While the Bloomsday weekend promises fun and excitement galore, one disappointing note has been the withdrawal today from the elite women’s field of three-time Bloomsday champion Lineth Chepkurui. Chepkurui has scratched to compete in a 10,000 meter track race instead, in an attempt to get a qualifying time for the 2012 Olympics.

“We’re disappointed, of course, at Lineth’s decision,” said Elite Athlete Coordinator Jon Neill, “But this does mean that there will be a new Bloomsday champion in both the men’s and women’s races, and we’re excited to see who steps up to take top honors.”

Along with Check-In, the Bloomsday Trade Show is in full swing, with a variety of sports, fitness, and general interest exhibitors on site. The Trade Show is open during the same hours as Check-In.

As Sunday morning approaches, Bloomsday has also announced that participants will be treated to a live starting line performance by stellar vocalist John Keston of Sun River, Oregon. Keston will sing "O, Canada" and "The Star-Spangled Banner" for runners as they wait for the race to begin. The 86-year-old is not only an outstanding singer, but also a noted actor and world-class age-group runner who holds a number of Bloomsday age-group records. He has performed at the Bloomsday starting line for the past ten years. Keston will also be signing copies of his new book, Expressions of Aging, on Saturday at the Trade Show.

Keston’s start line vocals will be a warm-up for a full slate of entertainment along the Bloomsday course, as 35 performers are scheduled for race day. This year’s on-course entertainment includes music to please a variety of tastes, including rock, pop, punk, blues, bluegrass, ska, oldies, accordion and Christian. The slate includes Small Town Nation, last year’s top vote-getters in the Best Bloomsday Performer competititon.

Bloomsday entrants will be able to vote for their favorite performers again this year by logging on to www.bloomsdayrun.org after the race, and prizes of $500, $300, and $150 will be awarded to the winning entertainers. A full listing of this year’s performers is on Bloomsday’s website by clicking Race Information, then On-Course Entertainment on the drop-down menu.

Streets in downtown Spokane will begin to close around 5:00 a.m. on Sunday. Additional details about road closures are on the Bloomsday website by clicking the Race Information button and choosing Road Closures on the drop-down menu.

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2011 National Run a Mile Days Set for May 1-8

Partners American Running Association, Youth Runner Magazine seek hosts in all 50 states for 4th edition

BETHESDA, Md. - The American Running Association (ARA) will host and promote the 4th National Run a Mile Days starting May 1 and lasting through May 8, 2011. Participating schools and organizations may include elementary, middle and high schools, track clubs and community organizations. ARA and our partner Youth Runner Magazine will post stories and photos from multiple event sites across the U.S.

"We are seeking elementary, middle school and high schools in all 50 states to host a Miler Day," said ARA's Executive Director Dave Watt. "We are committed to supporting schools and groups committed to the Run a Mile Days concept."

Host schools, running clubs and communities are encouraged to incorporate the "Miler" event into their PE class planners as well as community events.

"Running the Mile is a measure of fitness as well as a great distance to kick start a commitment to a healthier lifestyle," added Watt.

Running USA Annual Half-Marathon Report

America's favorite road race distance shows another year of phenomenal growth as women and the Rock 'n' Roll Series lead the charge; record 25 U.S. half-marathons with 10,000 or more finishers; Bupa Great North Run world's largest

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - (April 25, 2011) - If marathon mania exists, then, the half-marathon has reached hyper-mania. Last year, according to Running USA, U.S. half-marathons continued their upward trajectory as the "leader of the pack" repeated its phenomenal 24% growth rate, from approximately 1.1 million finishers in 2009 to nearly 1.4 million finishers in 2010, a record annual increase for the distance. In the same 733 U.S. half-marathons for 2009 vs. 2010, there was a 17.24% finisher increase (975,409 vs. 1,143,551).

Since 2003, the half-marathon has been the fastest growing road race distance in the United States, and for five consecutive years (2006-10), the number of 13.1 mile finishers in the U.S. has grown by 10% or more each year. Moreover, since 2000, the number of half-marathon finishers in this country has nearly tripled (482,000 to 1,385,000). In short, no other race distance comes close to this type of growth in recent years.

For the rest of the Running USA Annual Half-Marathon Report, CLICK HERE.

Special thanks to
Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Services Director.
385 Oak View Lane
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
(805) 696-6232, fax (805) 967-5958
Ryan@RunningUSA.org
http://www.runningusa.org

 

CHEPKURUI FACES TOUGH BATTLE TO WIN HER FOURTH BLOOMSDAY

Contact: Don Kardong, Race Director—(509) 838-1579


Belete Assefa Hopes to Become First Ethiopian Champion

Spokane, Washington—The world’s best runners and wheelchair racers will be gathering in Spokane this Sunday for the 35th running of the Lilac Bloomsday Run. Leading the women’s field will be Lineth Chepkurui of Kenya, who will try to turn the tables on Ethiopia's Wude Ayalew, who beat Chepkurui by 11 seconds last Saturday at the Crescent City Classic in New Orleans. If successful, Chepkurui would become the first woman to win four Bloomsday titles in a row. The men's race, meanwhile, has suddenly opened up with the withdrawal of 2010 Bloomsday champion Peter Kirui, leaving the possibility of either Ethiopian Belete Assefa, last year's runnerup Julius Kogo, three-time Bloomsday champion John Korir, or one of a number of other tough international runners to capture top honors.

SUNDAY A LUCKY DAY FOR BLOOMSDAY 35-ers

Contact: Don Kardong, Race Director—(509) 838-1579

SUNDAY A LUCKY DAY FOR BLOOMSDAY 35-ers
iPads, Sports Authority Certificates and Apparel for #35, 350, 3,500 & 35,000

Spokane, WA – World-class runners and wheelchair racers may be competing for nearly $100,000 in prize money, but at least four Bloomsday finishers farther back in the pack will also have a shot at more than a finisher’s shirt. In celebration of the 35th running of the Lilac Bloomsday Run, special prizes will be awarded to the 35th, 350th, 3,500th and 35,000th finishers. Each of those four will receive an iPad2 from Strong Solutions, a gift certificate from Sports Authority ($100 for #35, $50 for the others), an Inlander.com T-shirt and Bloomsday souvenir apparel.

The Evergreen State College 5k Series

The Evergreen State College is hosting three 5k runs!

Run For Your Mom 5k
May 8, 2011

The Evergreen Classic 5K
June 12, 2011

The Torchlight Night 5K
July 3, 2011

look here for more information!

MYLAPS Timing Company Establishes Donation Effort for Japan's Recovery

Help get Japan back in the race with transponder purchase

To contribute to the reconstruction of Japan after the recent devastating earthquake and tsunami, MYLAPS, the leader in research and development in sports timing, has started a fundraising effort by offering transponders that include a donation for Japan.  

The donation will be charged by purchasing a transponder that will be tripled in price by MYLAPS with proceeds donated to the Japan fund.

This fund will be used to help MYLAPS customers such as organizations and race tracks in Japan that have suffered from the earthquake and tsunami. The fund will be used to replace damaged timing equipment and to get them back in the race.

For more information including the donation page, go to: www.mylaps.com/index.php/us_eng/Websites/corporate/ganbare_japan

13.1® Marathon Series to Award Prize Money

Nationwide series offers more than $53,000 in total prize money including Series championship in Miami on March 4, 2012

DALLAS - (April 19, 2011) - US Road Sports & Entertainment Group (USRS), owners and operators of the ING Miami Marathon, Publix Georgia Marathon, Chicago Half Marathon, New Jersey Marathon and the 13.1 Marathon® Series, has announced the awarding of prize money at the remaining stops of the 13.1 Marathon® Series in 2011 and the Los Angeles stop at the beginning of 2012.

Culminating with a purse of more than $29,000 at the 13.1® Miami Beach in 2012, USRS will award a total of $3500 per event to the top three runners at 13.1 events, as well as $29,200 in prize money for the Series championship to be held in Miami Beach on March 4, 2012.

At each 13.1® event, the prize money breakdown will offer a total prize money purse of $3500 distributed as $1750 per gender ($1000, $500 and $250).

Inaugural Tinker Bell Half Marathon Announced by runDisney

January 2012 event weekend at Disneyland Resort to celebrate women runners amid fairy wings and pixie dust; fifth runDisney event - and second showcasing women's health, fitness and active lifestyles; registration now open

ANAHEIM, Calif. - (April 19, 2011) - Building on the near-instant success of its Princess Half Marathon Weekend at Walt Disney World Resort, runDisney is staging a second women-specific race - the Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend - in early 2012 at Disneyland Resort, giving women and girls nationwide another opportunity to celebrate health, fitness and active lifestyles. After weeks of anticipation fueled by a series of clues from Disney, the Tinker Bell event was officially revealed Tuesday at a news conference at Disneyland Resort attended by celebrities and Anaheim city officials.

Grandma's Marathon, Twin Cities In Motion Offer $10,000 Bonus for Marathon Sweep

Only two marathoners - Andrew Musuva, Buzunesh Deba - have done the Minnesota Double in the same calendar year

DULUTH / ST. PAUL, Minn. - (April 20, 2011) - Grandma's Marathon-Duluth, Inc. and Twin Cities In Motion have announced an incentive bonus for any runner winning both of Minnesota's largest marathons in 2011. A $10,000 bonus will be awarded to anyone capturing the Open division titles at this year's Grandma's Marathon (June 18) and Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon (October 2).

"We are excited to partner with Twin Cities In Motion to offer this doubleheader bonus. Not only will it provide an element of added excitement to both events, but we feel this type of monetary reward is an appropriate way to recognize someone achieving this unique accomplishment," said Grandma's Marathon Executive Director Scott Keenan.

"We are proud to support the sport of running with this incentive. Together, we have 65 years of race experience and we continue to find new and innovative ways to reward professional runners," said Twin Cities In Motion Executive Director Virginia Brophy Achman.

Historically, only one male and one female have earned Grandma's Marathon and Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon sweep victories in the same calendar year.

Kenya's Andrew Musuva claimed both titles in 1999 when he won June's Grandma's Marathon in 2 hours, 12 minutes, 21 seconds and completed the sweep at October's Twin Cities Marathon in 2:14:41.

Last year, Ethiopia's Buzunesh Deba became the only female to accomplish the feat with winning times of 2:31:35 and 2:27:23, respectively.

Both races are celebrating milestone events this year - June 18 will be Grandma's Marathon's 35th running and October 2 marks the 30th Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon.

Grandma's Marathon-Duluth, Inc. is a Duluth, Minn.-based non-profit organization responsible for coordinating the annual running of Grandma's Marathon and its supporting events, including the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon, William A. Irvin 5K, Whipper Snapper Races for Kids and Essentia Health Fitness and Health Expo.  

The organization also administers the Young Athletes Foundation (YAF), which assists with the promotion and development of youth athletics in a five-county region in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin. The YAF has contributed more than $425,000 to area youth athletic programs with the help of annual fundraising efforts including the Fitger's 5K and Park Point 5-Miler. For more information, go to: www.grandmasmarathon.com 

Twin Cities In Motion, (formerly Twin Cities Marathon, Inc.) is the non-profit organization that organizes running events throughout the year, including the Valentine's Day TC 5K, 100% Irish For A Day TC 5K & TC 10 Mile, Medtronic TC 1 Mile, Twins Territory TC 4K, Red, White & Boom! TC Half Marathon, the TC 5K, TC 10K & Medtronic TC Family Events, Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon, Medtronic TC 10 Mile, all related events and Medtronic TC Kids Marathon program, as a community service for the Minneapolis / St. Paul area. Visit www.tcmevents.org for more information.

Special thanks to
Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Services Director.
385 Oak View Lane
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
(805) 696-6232, fax (805) 967-5958
Ryan@RunningUSA.org
http://www.runningusa.org

2011 Boston Marathon: Desiree Davila after the race

April 18, 2011: Watch Desiree Davila's interview after her exciting second-place finish at the Boston Marathon. 

2011 Boston Marathon: Hall is happy

April 18, 2011: Watch Ryan Hall's interview after his fourth-place finish at the Boston Marathon, where he ran the fastest time ever by an American under any conditions.

2011 L.A. Marathon

Watch a full replay of the 2011 L.A. Marathon!

Garmin Adds Touchscreen GPS Watch to Forerunner Line

Garmin International, Inc., has introduced the Forerunner 610 sports watch, which features a weatherproof touchscreen for serious runners seeking an extra advantage, the company said. Forerunner 610 can stand up to rain, sweat, and splashes, and is responsive enough that it can be operated with running gloves, Garmin said. Forerunner 610 was announced in preparation for world-class marathons in Boston and London as well as the Australian fitness expo.

Designed for the runner who is constantly seeking improvement, Forerunner 610 is Garmin’s new flagship model, allowing runners to see how far, how fast, and how hard they have worked. Forerunner 610 won a Red Dot Design Award, a design competition.

Forerunner 610 uses a vibration motor for alerts such as heart rate, pace and distance when audible tones cannot be heard (heart monitor included in some bundles or available separately). With the heart rate monitor, Forerunner 610 also allows runners to track their training intensity via the new Training Effect feature, which measures the impact of exercise on aerobic fitness and lets users know how the workout improves their fitness during the workout.

With the Virtual Racer feature, runners can race themselves over their previous bests or against other users’. The information is taken from runs stored on the watch or downloaded wirelessly from the Garmin Connect running community, where other users log their workouts, track their totals, set goals, share workouts, and participate in an online fitness community of more than 50 million activities around the world. Garmin Connect displays metrics such as time, distance, pace, elevation, and heart rate. This information is shown through charts, illustrations, reports, and a variety of map representations including street, photo, topographic, and elevation maps.

A new run/walk alert allows Forerunner 610’s other features, such as, Auto Lap and Auto Pause, to remain active during a run/walk session.

Marathon Champion Grete Waitz Has Died; She Was 57

One day after the 2011 Boston Marathon, there is sad news to report for runners around the globe:

"Grete Waitz, the elite Norwegian runner who won nine New York City Marathons and a silver medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, died Tuesday after a six-year battle with cancer. She was 57." (The Associated Press)

Big Sur International Marathon Finalizes New Course

Road closure prompted rerouting of iconic point-to-point course in final month for 2011 event

CARMEL, Calif. - (April 15, 2011) - The unanticipated collapse of California's scenic Highway One, midway along the Big Sur International Marathon course, prompted a new routing of the 26.2 mile footrace for the Sunday, May 1, 2011 event. After several weeks of meetings, surveying and discussions, the modified course has been finalized for the 26th presentation.

Typically a point-to-point run from Big Sur to Carmel, this year's race is an "out-and-back" course along Highway One beginning on the Carmel River Bridge near Rio Road, Carmel. The 4,500 registered marathoners, along with 300 marathon team relay participants will head off at 6:45am and eventually be narrowed into the inland lane of Highway One. Immediately following will be the 21 and 9 Miler events. The 10.6 Miler will have already begun at 6:30am with runners and walkers headed north on the ocean side lane of Highway One from their traditional start at Rocky Point Restaurant. The 5K event begins at 7:45am.

"There are many moving parts on race day," said Wally Kastner, race director. "We've had to adjust routes, times and transportation to make this event come together in a very short time frame." Kastner also cited the need for new positioning of aid stations, relay exchange points

Mutai, Kilel Win Wild 115th Boston Marathon

Men's champion produces fastest marathon ever; Davila women's runner-up and Hall fastest American all-time under near perfect racing conditions on historic point-to-point, downhill course

By Jim Gerweck, Running USA wire

BOSTON - (April 18, 2011) - The 115th running of the Boston Marathon on Monday turned out to be one of the record books - it just depends on which ones you want to rewrite.

Kenya's Geoffrey Mutai, 29, ran the fastest marathon in history - 2 hours, 3 minutes, 2 seconds - a time 57-seconds faster than the world record set by Haile Gebrselassie at Berlin in 2008 and an almost incomprehensible three minutes better than Robert Kiprono Cheryuoit's course record of 2:05:52, which was deemed virtually untouchable when he set it last year. Mutai's mark will not count as a world record, however, because the Boston course exceeds the IAAF limits on drop and separation from start to finish. Similarly, Ryan Hall's fourth place U.S. course record 2:04:58 won't erase Khalid Khannouchi's 2:05:38 from London 2002 as the U.S. record. In short, the Boston course is not record standard.

But none of those technicalities can fully take away from the incredible performances that 26,964 runners crafted on the roads from Hopkinton to Boston, pushed along by an aiding tailwind and running under near perfect temperatures in the mid-50s.

Sports Authority Teams Up with Competitor Group to Announce Title Sponsorship

Sports Authority Rock 'n' Roll Denver Marathon & ½ Marathon set for Sunday, October 9, 2011

DENVER - Sports Authority, the nation's premier full-line sporting goods retailer, has announced that it has partnered with sports marketing and event management leader Competitor Group, Inc. (CGI), to become title sponsor of the Sports Authority Rock 'n' Roll Denver Marathon & ½ Marathon set for Sunday, October 9, 2011.

"As a leading sporting goods retailer, it is essential we continue raising brand awareness with high-profile strategic partnerships that fit the core values of our customers," said Jeff Schumacher, Chief Marketing Officer for Sports Authority. "We are thrilled to be

Benoit Samuelson to Run 2011 Boston Marathon

Two-time race champion and 1984 Olympic Marathon gold medalist eyes 2012 Olympic Marathon Trials qualifier; four-time champion Bill Rodgers also to serve as Grand Marshal of 115th running

BOSTON - (April 11, 2011) - The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) has announced that Olympic gold medalist and two-time Boston Marathon champion Joan Benoit Samuelson will compete in the 115th running of the Boston Marathon on Monday, April 18. The 53-year-old Maine native will run the Boston Marathon for the first time since 1993. Benoit Samuelson will start among the Elite Women at 9:32am ET that will include approximately 67 of the world's top female marathoners.

Benoit Samuelson won the 1979 Boston Marathon in a U.S. best of 2 hours, 35 minutes, 15 seconds, and she established a world best at the 1983 Boston Marathon in 2:22:43. Her performance from 1983 remains the fourth fastest time in Boston Marathon history.

"Joan is a running legend and perhaps the greatest marathoner the United States has ever produced," said B.A.A. Executive Director Tom Grilk. "Any time she races, she adds to her legacy. We are pleased that spectators along the course, those watching on television and those following online will have an additional element of attraction."

Benoit Samuelson has stated that she may pursue at the Boston Marathon the 2012 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials qualifying time of 2:46:00.

"Boston is special race for me," said Benoit Samuelson. "The crowds know and appreciate the athletes competing and their accomplishments, and they never disappoint with their encouragement and enthusiasm. I look forward to experiencing their energy and excitement on Patriots' Day."

When she won in 1979, she was 21-year-old student Joan Benoit from Bowdoin College. She went on to win the inaugural gold medal in the women's Olympic Marathon at the 1984 Los Angeles Games. Over time and following her Olympic victory, she became an icon of the sport and one of its most recognizable names.

Benoit Samuelson is one of only four Boston Marathon champions to have also won gold in the Olympic Marathon. Gelindo Bordin of Italy, Rosa Mota of Portugal and Fatuma Roba of Ethiopia are the others.

Colorado Running Hall of Fame Announces 2011 Inductees

5th class includes Libbie Hickman, Steve Flanagan, John Meyer, Bette Poppers and Parthenia Jones



DENVER - (April 5, 2011) - The Colorado Running Hall of Fame will hold its 5th annual induction ceremony for the 2011 class on Tuesday, April 19 at the Denver Athletic Club, and the 2011 inductee class is:



* Steve Flanagan is a U.S. World Cross Country Champion participant and marathon runner. In the 1970s, he ran for the Frank Shorter Racing Team and was a cross-country specialist for the Colorado Track Club. He is also the father of America's top female distance runner, Shalane Flanagan, who was a bronze medalist at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.



* Libbie Hickman was named top female road racer in 1991, 1998 and 2000 by Runner's World magazine. The Colorado State grad ran the 10,000 meters at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and was the first American woman to win the Bolder Boulder 10K in 14 years in 1997. From Fort Collins, Hickman has largely retired from the sport in favor of chasing her two young children.

Howarth, Turner Win 11th GO! St. Louis Marathon

Boit, Kingori half-marathon champions; more than 25,000 participants in 10 GO! St. Louis Family Fitness Weekend races

By Jeff Trammel, GO! St. Louis

ST. LOUIS - (April 10, 2011) - On Sunday morning, Paul Howarth, 33, from Charleston, IL won the 11th GO! St. Louis Marathon in a time of 2 hours, 29 minutes, 41 seconds. On a day when start temperatures were above 65 degrees, Howarth edged three-time event champion Karl Gilpin by a two seconds. Gilpin, from Russellville, MO finished in 2:29:43. On the women's side, it was another first time GO! St. Louis champion - Angie Turner, 42, from Hallsville, MO, who finished in 2:59:44.

In the half-marathon, Kenyan Josphat Boit, 27, from North Little Rock, AK finished first unchallenged in 1:06:47, while countrymen Sammy Rotich was runner-up (1:08:02) and Richard Kandie third (1:08:22).

In the women's half-marathon, Kenyan Ann Kingori, 23, from Coon Rapids, MN was the first woman to cross the line with her 1:20:18. Kingori edged Kimi Reed, who clocked a time of 1:20:40. Third place was captured by Emily Ramsey in 1:22:34.

On a day that temperatures, combined with high humidity, climbed to near 90 degrees, more than 11,500 finished the half-marathon and more than 1,900 finished the marathon. The event also included a marathon relay, with more than 500 team registering. Overall, more than 25,000 participants competed in 10 different events over the two-day weekend of fitness races.

Saucony Run For Good Foundation Announces Grant Winners

Eight recipients include the Boys and Girls Club of Boston, selected to receive grant in name of Wallace Spearmon, Jr., 2008 Olympic sprinter and Saucony athlete, in support of track and field programs to benefit inner-city, at-risk youth; nearly $700,000 distributed by Foundation since 2006

LEXINGTON, Mass. - (March 30, 2011) - The Saucony Run for Good Foundation, established to help combat childhood obesity by providing financial support to community-based youth running programs, has announced its latest round of grant winners. The eight grants include a biannual award presented in the name of 2008 Olympic sprinter and Saucony athlete Wallace Spearmon, Jr. to support track and field programs benefiting at-risk youth. The Wallace Spearmon, Jr. grant was awarded to the Boys and Girls Club of Boston, Massachusetts to support the launch of ten running programs in three urban neighborhoods in Boston.

"Reversing the childhood obesity epidemic will take everyone, communities, schools, families and businesses, working together," said Richie Woodworth, president of the Saucony Run For Good Foundation Board of Directors and Saucony, Inc. "At the heart of the Saucony brand is our mission: to inspire others to run. We have a passionate belief in the transformative power of running for everyone, including kids. Addressing the issues facing the health of our children through the Saucony Run For Good Foundation represents a fusion of our mission and our commitment to social responsibility."

The Saucony Run For Good Foundation's ongoing commitment to childhood obesity reflects the growing concern that Americans have for the health of today's children. A recent poll on childhood obesity conducted by Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research and American Viewpoint shows that 80 percent of Americans recognize that childhood obesity is a significant and growing challenge for the country, and 50 percent of Americans believe childhood obesity is such an important issue that we need to invest more to prevent it immediately.

The Distance is Right: Drew Carey to Run First Half Marathon

Comedian, "The Price is Right" game show host to debut at Marine Corps Historic Half in Fredericksburg, VA

QUANTICO, Va. - (April 4, 2011) - Comedian and "The Price is Right" game show host Drew Carey will make his half-marathon debut at the Marine Corps Historic Half on Sunday, May 15 in Fredericksburg, VA. Carey announced his plans to run in a March 14 tweet. In addition to running, Carey also will serve as the official starter of the half-marathon event, organized by the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM).

Carey, who is celebrating his dramatic weight loss, will join 8,000 Historic Half participants on the 13.1 mile run through the scenic and historic City of Fredericksburg.



Known for his trademark buzz cut and black wide-rim glasses, Carey is a former U.S. Marine corporal who served six years in the Marine Corps Reserves from 1981 to 1987. He was a communications center operator serving with the 4th Marine Division in Las Vegas and Cleveland.

"The Marines are proud Drew Carey is making the Marine Corps Historic Half his first half-marathon event," says MCM Director Rick Nealis. "His participation is certain to inspire others to pursue a healthy, active lifestyle."

Host of the CBS game show "The Price is Right" for the past five seasons, and creator, producer and host of "Drew Carey's IMPROV-A-GANZA" on GSN, Carey got his start in comedy with appearances in comedy clubs and on "The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson." Carey has had the distinction of having two hit television shows simultaneously, "The Drew Carey Show," which ran from 1995 to 2004, and the improvisational show "Who's Line Is It Anyway?".

The Marine Corps Historic Half marathon is located halfway between the nation's capital in Washington, DC and the capital of the Commonwealth of Richmond, VA. The Marine Corps Historic Half marathon is coordinated by organizers of the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM). The 2011 Historic Half marathon is sponsored by New Balance, Geico and Mary Washington Healthcare. More information about the Historic Half and other MCM events is available at: www.marinemarathon.com

Special thanks to
Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Services Director.
385 Oak View Lane
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
(805) 696-6232, fax (805) 967-5958
Ryan@RunningUSA.org
http://www.runningusa.org

Participant Cap Increased for 40th Anniversary of Chevron Houston Marathon

New early registration, time qualifications for guaranteed race entries

HOUSTON - (April 5, 2011) - The Houston Marathon Committee has increased its participant cap to 24,000 for the 40th anniversary of the Chevron Houston Marathon on Sunday, January 15, 2012. The Committee will also offer early registration for a limited number of runners who meet time qualification standards to receive a guaranteed race entry.

The raised cap represents a 2,000-participant increase over the 2011 cap and will be applied to the marathon field with 13,000 entries reserved for the marathon and 11,000 for the half-marathon.

"With the large number of guaranteed marathon entries allocated to runners who have completed five or more Houston Marathons, we wanted to allow more runners to participate," said Wade Morehead, executive director of the Houston Marathon Committee. "The marathon cap increase allows us to cater to our dedicated runners while at the same time offer more opportunities for others to take part in our event."

Runners who meet a four-hour and two-hour time qualification standard for the marathon and half-marathon, respectively, are eligible to receive a limited number of guaranteed race entries available during an early registration period which opens on Tuesday, May 10, 2011 at 8:00am CST and closes on Tuesday, May 31 at 11:59pm CST. A 10K qualifying time of 54 minutes or less may also be used to enter the half-marathon to allow an opportunity for newer runners to enter our race. Finisher times dating back to July 2010 may be used to qualify for early registration. A list of eligible qualifying races can be found at: chevronhoustonmarathon.com

Time qualification entries will be limited to the first 2,000 marathon and 1,500 half-marathoners who meet these standards and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. If the time qualification fields are not fulfilled during early registration, the remaining race entries will be added to the open lottery pool.

In addition to time standards, runners who have completed five or more Houston Marathons, deferred 2011 race registrants and members designated by the Houston Area Road Runner Association (HARRA) are eligible to sign up early and receive a guaranteed race entry.

Race registration for the general public will open on Wednesday, June 1, 2011 at 8:00am CST and extend through Thursday, June 23, 2011 at 11:59pm CST. Runners must register online at chevronhoustonmarathon.com during the 23-day period. All registrants will be notified of their selection status no later than Monday, June 27, 2011.

Registration fees for the marathon and half-marathon races are $125 and $105, respectively.

A limited number of guaranteed race entries will also be available through a "Heroes" charity registration for both the marathon and half-marathon. The "Heroes" charity registration enables runners to make a direct donation of at least $350 to an official race charity of the runner's choice, plus the cost of registration, to secure a spot in either race. Official 2011-2012 Run for a Reason charities will be announced on Monday, May 2, 2011. This past January, the Run for a Reason program raised a record $2 million for 52 participating nonprofits.

The 2012 Chevron Houston Marathon, Aramco Houston Half Marathon and El Paso Corporation 5K will take place on January 15, 2012. Registration for the El Paso Corporation 5K will open on Thursday, September 15, 2011.

Additional details about 2012 race registration can be found at: chevronhoustonmarathon.com

Special thanks to
Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Services Director.
385 Oak View Lane
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
(805) 696-6232, fax (805) 967-5958
Ryan@RunningUSA.org
http://www.runningusa.org

Running to Make a Difference at XTERRA Lake Las Vegas Trail Run

Fujio Miyachi will race in Las Vegas to raise money for earthquake and tsunami disaster victims

HENDERSON, Nev. - (April 6, 2011) - As one of the top trail runners in Japan, Fujio Miyachi is trying to lead the way for some of his fellow citizens in need.

Miyachi has entered the XTERRA Lake Las Vegas Trail Run on Saturday, April 9, at Henderson, Nev. One of his goals is to win the race - and he is considered a solid contender.

But his main goal is to raise money for victims of the earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan on March 11. Miyachi, 32, resides in Minatoku, Tokyo, Japan, which is about 150 miles from the main area of destruction, so he and his immediate family were safe. However, he said he has friends and relatives who live closer to the disaster area.

"Some of their houses were severely damaged by the earthquake, and some are completely gone (because of) the tsunami," he said.

After the disaster hit, Miyachi was not sure if he wanted to travel to his scheduled races. But after receiving clearance from race officials that he could set aside a donation box at the Lake Las Vegas race, he started making his travel plans.

"Finally, I decided to go to Las Vegas to run in order to encourage my friends and other people at affected areas," he said. "I believe that the Japanese people will overcome the difficult situation. But I also believe the support of the people around the world will definitely give strong power to our Japanese people who have been severely affected by the disaster."

The XTERRA Lake Las Vegas Trail Run is a 21-kilometer race that will take place on a desert trail near Lake Las Vegas in Henderson. More than 200 trail runners from around the world are expected to participate. Miyachi is one of several elite runners in the field. He finished in the top 10 of the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship in both 2009 and 2010.

A donation box will be set up at the registration area on race day, and anyone - participants or spectators - can make a cash donation. Money raised will be sent to Civic Force, which is a non-profit organization in Japan that provides emergency services for victims of disasters.

Entries for the race are still being accepted, and it is open to runners of all ages and skill levels. In addition to the 21-kilometer championship course, there will also be separate 10-kilometer and 5-kilometer courses.

For entry information and more, go to:
http://www.xterraplanet.com/xduro/lakelasvegas.html

Special thanks to
Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Services Director.
385 Oak View Lane
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
(805) 696-6232, fax (805) 967-5958
Ryan@RunningUSA.org
http://www.runningusa.org

Vibha Run/Walk 2011, 5/10K/Half Marathon and Carnival

The Dream Mile is the flagship event in Vibha's continued efforts to increase awareness about the plight of underprivileged children. It has come a long way since its inception in 1998. It has grown from being a small event attended primarily by volunteers and friends to a permanent fixture on the calendars of runners in the various cities in America. The increasing participation and enthusiasm for this event just goes to show how strongly people feel about the cause of underprivileged children.

Professionally Timed by OnYourMarkEvents
FREE for Children under 12
FREE T-Shirt, Food & Parking
Kid’s Carnival – Games, Face Painting, Mehendi and more…

Go here for full details!

Race Results - Ft. Steilacoom Running Club Resolution Series - 5 Km, 20km, 20 mile

Race Results
Ft. Steilacoom Running Club Resolution Series
March 26, 2011, Steilacoom, WA
5 Km, 20km, 20 mile

View All results here!

The Shore Run/Walk - 2011

Sunday, June 12, 2011

The Shore Run/Walk, one of Seattle’s most family-friendly and scenic events, is back again in its 34th year! Join Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center for a 5K Run/Walk, 10K Run or Half-Mile Kids' Run on Sunday, June 12. Enjoy the scenic routes along Lake Washington and finish in Madison Park, which features food, music, awards and drawings for prizes.

5K Run/Walk: 8:15 a.m. (Leschi Park to Madison Park)
10K Run: 9 a.m. (Ferdinand Park to Madison Park)
Half-Mile Kids' Run: 10:15 a.m. (Madison Park)

Registration and full information here!


Enter Today for the Shore Run!

Gebremeskel, Kiros Win 26th Carlsbad 5000

Ethiopians Sweep Carlsbad 5000

Americans place third in each invitational race; age group records highlight perfect day for 26th annual 'Party by the Sea'

By Bert Rosenthal

CARLSBAD, Calif. - (April 3, 2011) - A confident Dejen Gebremeskel and a wispy Aheza Kiros gave Ethiopia a sweep of the men's and women's invitational races at the 26th Carlsbad 5000 on Sunday. Both events produced dramatic finishes under sunny, but breezy conditions.

Gebremeskel, last year's runner-up, sat behind defending champion Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya for most of the 3.1-mile race before spurting ahead in the final 100 meters and finishing in 13 minutes, 11 seconds. The time matched Kipchoge's winning performance of 2010 and equaled the fourth-fastest clocking in history.

By winning, Gebremeskel spoiled Kipchoge's bid to break the world record of 13:00, established by Sammy Kipketer in 2000 and tied by him a year later at Carlsbad. Kipchoge had said prior to the race that he thought he had a good chance of taking down the record. However, he was sidetracked by pacesetter Haron Lagat. Lagat was supposed to take the leaders through the first two miles, but only managed to hang on for just over a mile.

By dropping out, Lagat left Kipchoge to assume the lead. That led to some gamesmanship between Kipchoge and Gebremeskel. Shortly past two miles (hit in 8:25), Kipchoge signaled to Gebremeskel to take over the lead. The Ethiopian refused, continuing to run just behind Kipchoge. Then when Gebremeskel was only a few steps from the end, he pointed to the finish line, indicating that he was the winner.

"I knew I would win," the 21-year-old Gebremeskel said. About his finger-pointing, he said, "I got to the finish line first. I pointed because I was happy that I won."

As for the world record, he said, "Next year I will try for it."

It's not often that a runner can outsmart Kipchoge, who was ranked #1 in the world at 5000 meters in 2010, has won silver and bronze medals over 5000 meters in the past two Olympics and has been one of the world's most consistent runners since winning the World Championships at age 18 eight years ago.

"I thought following him was best for me," said Gebremeskel. "He has a better PB than me. He's a strong guy, he's a tough guy. I like running on someone's shoulder because of the wind (here). Maybe I had more power today because I didn't have to work so hard."

The affable Kipchoge was not overly upset that Gebremeskel didn't accept his invitation to seize the lead. "I told him to go but he wouldn't go," said Kipchoge, who ran 13:14 (#7 all-time). "I can't be mad. I just couldn't run a faster time. The pacemaker slowed down. You can't push if there are only two of us."

Two also was the operative number in the women's invitational and followed a similar script to the men's race. After the start, Kiros, the 2009 winner and 2010 runner-up, and Pauline Korikwiang of Kenya broke away from the field and waged a close battle throughout. Korikwiang held a slim advantage until the closing 10-15 meters before Kiros swept past her and won in 15:13, one second ahead of the Kenyan.

"The last 200 meters I pushed it," Kiros said. "I love this race."

While Kiros, 25, sidestepped questions about her tactics, Korikwiang, a team gold medalist at the recent World Cross Country Championships and the national Junior record holder for the 5000 on the track, was upset about her second individual test on the roads.

"If you push the pace and she doesn't come and help, that's not a good race," she said. "I pushed the race so I became tired at the last minutes. If I had someone else to push the pace, I think I could have run faster."

Americans did well in both races. Bobby Curtis of Ardmore, Pa. finished third in the men's race in 13:48, three-time Olympian Jen Rhines of Mammoth Lakes, Calif. was third in the women's event in 15:37, and was followed by 2008 Olympian Christin Wurth-Thomas of Springdale, Ark. in 15:56.

The Masters races also produced some sparkling competition with former UCLA runners sweeping both events. In the men's race, Christian Cushing-Murray, 43, of Santa Ana, Calif., won for the third consecutive year in 15:04. "I don't think I'm as fit as last year," he said, laughing. "That's what happens when you get over 40."

The hotly contested women's event resulted in the first two finishers posting the same time - 17:24 - but Tania Fischer, 45, of Santa Monica, Calif. was declared the winner over Kathleen Jobes, 41, of Bethlehem, Pa. For Fischer, the victory was retribution for having finished second, third, fourth and fifth in her previous four Carlsbad 5000s.

"I finally got the victory," said Fischer, the head coach at Santa Monica High School and a ceramics teacher. "Coming down the homestretch was like running a relay in high school. This race is so incredible. Not only are the spectators but also the other runners - everybody into it."

Meanwhile, two age group records were also broken. Anne Garrett, 77, of Oceanside, Calif., smashed the U.S. mark for the 75-79 group by finishing in 25:59, 13 seconds faster than the record she set last year at Carlsbad, and Lenore Montgomery, 80, of North Vancouver, BC set the world record for the 80-84 group with 29:16, eclipsing the previous record of 29:23 established by Anne Clarke of Carol Stream, Ill. at Park Ridge, Ill. in 1989.

26th Carlsbad 5000
Carlsbad, CA, Sunday, April 3, 2011

MEN
1) Dejen Gebremeskel (ETH), 13:11, $5000
2) Eluid Kipchoge (KEN), 13:14, $3500
3) Bobby Curtis (USA / PA), 13:48, $2000
4) Juan Carlos Romero (MEX), 13:50, $1000
5) Haron Lagat (KEN), 13:55, $800
6) Diego Alberto Borrego (MEX), 14:06, $700
7) Craig Miller (USA / WI), 14:08, $500
8) Tony Okello (UGA), 14:11, $400
9) Jarrod Shoemaker (USA / MA), 14:12, $300
10) Ben St. Lawrence (AUS), 14:22, $200

MASTERS Men (40+)
1) Christian Cushing-Murray, 43, CA, 15:04, $1000
2) Chad Newton, 41, NC, 15:10, $500
3) Dennis Simonaitis, 49, UT, 15:11, $200

WOMEN
1) Aheza Kiros (ETH), 15:13, $5000
2) Pauline Korikwiang (KEN), 15:14, $3500
3) Jen Rhines (USA / CA), 15:37, $2000
4) Christin Wurth-Thomas (USA / AR), 15:56, $1000
5) Eloise Wellings (AUS), 16:06, $800
6) Stephanie Pezzullo (USA / AZ), 16:11, $700
7) Barbara Parker (GBR), 16:22, $500
8) Sara Slattery (USA / OR), 16:30, $400
9) Annie Bersagel (USA / CA), 16:40, $300
10) Brenda Martinez (USA / CA), 16:59, $200

MASTERS Women (40+)
1) Tania Fischer, 45, CA, 17:24, $1000
2) Kathleen Jobes, 41, PA, 17:24, $500
3) Carmen Troncoso, 52, TX, 17:42, $200

Complete results, photos and more at: www.Carlsbad5000.com

Special thanks to
Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Services Director.
385 Oak View Lane
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
(805) 696-6232, fax (805) 967-5958
Ryan@RunningUSA.org
http://www.runningusa.org

Run Like A Fool 5K -Race Results

Race Results
Run Like A Fool 5K,
April 2, 2011, Olympia, WA
5k

Race Day Photos!

Run Like A Fool 5K

Olympia, WA

April 2, 2011y, Windy and CHILLY!
Results by Rich Brown

Race Day Photos!

             CLASS
 ID#  PLACE PLACE          FINISHER          TIME     PACE

Open Men
  984     1    1  Josiah Price, 29           15:37.1    5:02

Open Women
  991     1    1  Megan Von Bargen, 17       21:35.6    6:58


Look here for all results
http://www.ontherunevents.com/results/1432.htm

Americans Wurth-Thomas, Rhines Headline 2011 Carlsbad 5000

2009 race champion Aheza Kiros of Ethiopia returns for 26th Running of the "World's Fastest 5K"

CARLSBAD, Calif. - (March 29, 2011) - Off her past two
performances in the Carlsbad 5000, Ethiopian Aheza
Kiros should be considered the favorite for the race's 26th running on
Sunday, April 3, 2011. However, there is a strong international field arrayed
against her, including U.S. Olympians Christin Wurth-Thomas and
Jen Rhines .

Kiros, the 2009 champion and 2010 runner-up to world record
holder Meseret Defar of Ethiopia, has a 5000m personal best of
14:56.33 on the track from 2009, and has run 15:26 at Carlsbad. The 25-year-old
Ethiopian, who lives in Addis Ababa after growing up in the Tigray region, began
running at a young age and almost always won her races during physical education
classes. By the age of 16, she was representing her school at the All-Ethiopian
School Championships, winning the 5000m. Now, she is mostly a 10,000 meter
runner and represented Ethiopia at that distance at the 2007 World
Championships.

In addition to the two top Americans, Kiros can expect
challenges from Pauline Konikwiang of Kenya, seventh at the
recent World Cross Country Championships and the national Junior record holder
with a 5000 PR of 14:45.98, who is making her debut on the roads; Olesya
Syreva of Russia, the European indoor silver medalist over 3000 meters,
the national indoor record-holder for two miles with a 5000 PR of 15:19.96; Eloise
Wellings of Australia, the 2010 national 5000 and 10,000 champion with
a 5000 PR of 14:54.11, and Adrienne Herzog of the Netherlands,
the national record holder for two miles with a 5000 PR of 15:34.37.

Meanwhile, Wurth-Thomas and Rhines should be in close pursuit of
Kiros. Wurth-Thomas, the 2008 U.S. indoor champion at 1500 meters, the 2007 and
2009 outdoor runner-up and 2008 Olympian, is looking to improve her endurance by
running a 5K.

"I'm excited to run a good race," said the 30-year-old
Wurth-Thomas. "My training has been going very well, so why not? I'm coming
off an 11-second PR indoors. I'm pretty fit and ready to go, so the sky's the
limit. I'm looking for competition. This will be my first outdoor race (of the
season)."

Wurth-Thomas also is anxious to compete in front of the
enthusiastic Carlsbad fans.

"The community and the town are amazing," the former
Arkansas standout added. "It's fun to see so many people come out for the
race. It's unique. There's always great support from the spectators, and I want
to get back there and medal this time."

Her 5000 PR is 15:28.04 at Mt. SAC in 2008. "I would be
happy with between 15:20 and 15:30 (on Sunday)," said Wurth-Thomas, who ran
16:06 at Carlsbad in 2009 and is one of only five Americans to break four
minutes for 1500 meters with a clocking of 3:59.59 last year. In her most recent
race, she easily won the 3000 meters at the Tyson Invitational on Feb. 14.

After Carlsbad, her plan is to run two more 5000s, at Mt. SAC
and Stanford, before concentrating on the 1500 with races at that distance at
the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Ore., New York and Rome before returning to
Eugene in June for nationals and the trials for the World Championships.

Rhines also is excited about competing again at Carlsbad. Four
years ago, she finished second to Defar in her road PR of 15:21.

"I feel really strong," the ex-Villanova runner said.
"I've been running some longer races. Now, I'm transitioning to shorter
ones."

The Mammoth Track Club athlete has won back-to-back U.S. road
titles over the half-marathon and 15K, with her most recent win over the
9.3-mile distance at Jacksonville in 49:34 on March 12. A seasoned veteran at
36, she has competed at three Olympics (2000, 2004 and 2008) at three different
distances (5000, 10,000 and the marathon). She also has run in four outdoor
World Championships, one World Indoor, four World Cross Country Championships
and one World Athletics final.

Rhines started her career as a sprinter in the eighth grade.
"I just kept moving up every year," she said.

"Now, I'd really like to break 31 minutes (for the 10,000)
before I'm done," said Rhines, whose PR is 31:17.31 (in 2007). "The
10,000 is going to be my focus for nationals and the World Championships."

Her goal for Sunday is about 15:22. "But in a road race,
it's hard to predict what the time will be." She said. "Some road
races are fast, some are slow. I'm comfortable with a tactical race. I like to
keep up with the pack. I don't run well off the pace. It should be a very
competitive race."

"I enjoyed running there before," she added. "I'm
glad to get back to Carlsbad. You definitely get a lot of support from the
crowd. Your name is on your bib and people recognize you and cheer for
you."

Both the U.S. and world records for 5000 have been set at the
Carlsbad 5000, which is internationally known as the "World's Fastest
5K." Defar established the world mark of 14:46 in 2006 and Deena
Kastor set the U.S. mark of 14:54 in 2002.

MEN'S PRE-RACE RELEASE

Defending race hampion - Eliud Kipchoge - eyes World Record at
Carlsbad 5000 CLICK here.

About the Carlsbad 5000

The 26th running of the Carlsbad 5000 annually attracts amateur, competitive and
professional runners from around the world. Race day begins at 7:05am with the
Masters Men 40 and over, the first of nine races that will take place throughout
the morning. The main event, featuring the world's fastest professional
athletes, begins at 12:15pm. The event is the home of the current world 5K road
records: 13:00, Sammy Kipketer (KEN), 2000 & 2001, and
14:46, Meseret Defar (ETH), 2006. With 16 world records in its
prestigious history, it has the most world records all-time set on the same
certified road course. In addition, it is the only road race from a commonly run
distance in the world that is home to the world records and its home country
records for both genders.

For more information, visit: www.Carlsbad5000.com

Special thanks to
Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Services Director.
385 Oak View Lane
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
(805) 696-6232, fax (805) 967-5958
Ryan@RunningUSA.org
http://www.runningusa.org

Boston Marathon Adds Third Wave for 2011 Start

New, third wave for more orderly start and implementation will not increase field size of 2011 race; also timing and scoring device affixed to each official entrant's bib debuts

HOPKINTON, Mass. - The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) will employ a third wave for the start of the 2011 Boston Marathon, creating a more efficient and improved running experience for participants in the 115th edition of the world's oldest, most prestigious and historic annual marathon. This year's race will be held on Monday, April 18: Patriots' Day in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Working in cooperation with the Town of Hopkinton and the Hopkinton Marathon Committee, the B.A.A. will institute three waves of mass participatory starters. Each wave will include approximately 9,000 official entrants, and each wave will be identified by its background bib color in a coordinated, patriotic color scheme: Wave One (red bibs), Wave Two (white bibs) and Wave Three (blue bibs).

The three-wave start will not increase the field size of the 2011 Boston Marathon.

The start times for the 2011 Boston Marathon are as follows:

Category / start time / # of entrants / bib color
Mobility Impaired participants / 9:00am / 6
Wheelchair Division / 9:17am / 30
Handcycles / 9:22am / 24
Professional Women / 9:32am / 50
Professional Men and Wave One / 10:00am / 9,000 / Red
Wave Two / 10:20am / 9,000 / White
Wave Three / 10:40am / 9,000 / Blue

Next month's Boston Marathon has a field size of approximately 27,000 official entrants, including those in the wheelchair division, visually impaired athletes and those competing in handcycles.

"The introduction of a third wave at the start of the Boston Marathon will provide a better pre-race and starting experience for our runners," said Dave McGillivray, Boston Marathon Race Director. "We continue to study methods to improve the race for our participants, and we are pleased to have a partnership with the Town of Hopkinton which allows an improved staging area and start for both the participants and the Town of Hopkinton's residents."

In recent past years, the field of runners started in approximately two, equally-sized waves. The addition of a third wave for 2011 enables the B.A.A. to divide the field into three, smaller, equally-sized waves. The result will be a more enjoyable race for participants, many of whom gear their entire recreational lives around running the Boston Marathon. Fewer runners in each wave allows for more orderly loading and staging in the corral system pre-race, and - after the race begins - less density not only in the early miles but also throughout the entire 26.2-mile course.

This year, the final, official runner in Wave Three is expected to cross the starting line at approximately 10:50am. Last year, the final, official runner in Wave Two crossed the starting line at 10:47am. Official timing and scoring in the Boston Marathon is held open for six hours after the last, official entrant crosses the starting line. Runners are timed using the net time it takes to run the course which serves as their official time. The amount of time it takes an official entrant from the starting gun until crossing the starting line does not add to their total time.

Runners in the Boston Marathon are seeded based on their qualifying time with the fastest runners starting closer to the front. For the 2011 race, runners who have qualified with a time of approximately 3:22:42 or faster will start in Wave One (red bibs) while those who have a qualifying time of approximately 3:45:56 or faster will start in Wave Two (white bibs). Runners with times greater than approximately 3:45:56 will start in Wave Three (blue bibs). Exact time breaks for the three waves will be ascertained in two weeks when bib numbering of the field occurs.

The starting procedure at the Boston Marathon has changed three times with improvements in the past ten years to better accommodate the field. In 2004, to better showcase the women's pro field, the B.A.A. implemented a separate start for the top female runners, beginning a half hour earlier than the rest of the field. In 2006, the second wave was added to the start, with 10,000 runners beginning at 12:00pm and 10,000 beginning at 12:30pm. In 2007, the start was moved to 10:00am, giving runners a better opportunity to experience optimum race day weather conditions.

Also new for next month's Boston Marathon, the timing and scoring device will be affixed to each official entrant's bib. Beginning in 1996 and continuing until last year, runners in the Boston Marathon were required to affix the timing and scoring device to their footwear.

For more race information, go to: www.bostonmarathon.org

Special thanks to
Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Services Director.
385 Oak View Lane
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
(805) 696-6232, fax (805) 967-5958
Ryan@RunningUSA.org
http://www.runningusa.org