Philadelphia Marathon Sprinting to a Record Registration

Top Quote With three 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, Marathon and Rothman Institute 8K in November on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia. End Quote
  • Philadelphia, PA-NJ (1888PressRelease) September 15, 2012 - With three 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 City™ 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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