Six Months to GO to the Second ING Georgia Marathon and Half-Marathon

Six Months to Second ING Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon
Preferred Rates for Registration Available Through Dec. 31.

(Aug. 30 2007, ATLANTA) – Today, the ING Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon begins its six month countdown to the 2008 race on Sunday, March 30. Returning for a second year, the race will feature the scenic in-town course that highlights the best of springtime in Atlanta. As part of the countdown, preferred rates for registration are now available to early registrants. Through Dec. 31, 2008, registration for the half marathon is $60; the registration for the marathon is $80. 
 
Last year’s race sold out the 15,000 available spots well in advance and race organizers expect another sell-out crowd for the 2008 event. “Runners have discovered what we’ve always known: Atlanta is one of the great cities for runners,” said Victoria Seahorn, race director. “The race course showcases the best of Atlanta’s in-town scenery and the record crowds of spectators create a unique and beautiful race whether this is your first or your fiftieth race.”
 
For each of the early race registrants, their entry guarantees a spot in the 2008 race and access to online training programs. In addition, each race participant will receive a unique commemorative medal and marathon poster, a Mizuno technical training shirt, and many other benefits that will be available only to those participating in Atlanta’s most picturesque road race. Registration is limited to 15,000 participants and is available online at the race Web site: www.inggeorgiamarathon.com.
 
According to Running USA, the 2007 ING Georgia Marathon and Half-Marathon, with 13,456 finishers–a nearly 90 percent finish rate–was the second largest inaugural marathon and half-marathon race combination of all-time. Only the 2004 Rock 'n' Roll Marathon in Phoenix, Arizona was larger with 23,456 finishers. The 2007 half-marathon, with 9,112 finishers was the 5th largest inaugural half-marathon of all-time. 
 
The ING Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon, to be held on Sunday, March 30, 2008, is Georgia’s picturesque neighborhood–based marathon and half marathon. It will travel through 26.2 miles (and 13.1 miles for the half marathon) of the metro Atlanta area’s most interesting and historic areas including the Sweet Auburn District, Inman Park, Decatur, midtown and downtown. Along the way, it will pass landmarks including the King Center, Carter Center, and the Margaret Mitchell House. The 2008 ING Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon includes a marathon, half-marathon and wheelchair events and is limited to 15,000 participants. Runners and race-day volunteers can get more information or sign up at www.inggeorgiamarathon.com