Posted: April 20, 2004

Athletics: KTVZ announces the Just Around The Bend Marathon

KTVZ is proud to announce the first annual Just Around The Bend Marathon. The 26.2 mile event will take place on October 10th, 2004. Also included are a 10K Fun Run and a 1 Mile Kid's Run, as well as music, refreshments, and more at the finish line. Participants also have a chance to win one of two Viking Tent Trailers, to be given away at the post-race awards ceremony.

Bob Shaw, from Z21 News at Sunrise, is currently in training with local marathoner and running coach Kyle Will, and aims to walk the 26.2 mile event. Regular updates featuring Bob's training will be broadcast on Z21 News beginning Wednesday, April 14th through the event. Shaw's long walk will benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Oregon - to make a pledge, just call Bob at 383-2121.

The Just Around The Bend Marathon begins in picturesque downtown Bend. The course will then take participants along Drake Park and through Bend's Westside neighborhoods, onto the Deschutes River trail and out to the spectacular views of the Cascade Mountains in Tumalo. After passing the halfway point runners and walkers alike will tackle the rolling hills on their way back to Bend, through the Historic Old Mill District and to the thrilling 1 mile loop finish in Drake Park nestled next to Mirror Pond.

To register, or for more information, just go to www.thebendmarathon.com, or call 350-3938. A portion of the proceeds benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Oregon for their cornerstone program the Ronald McDonald House, a six bedroom facility that provides families of sick or injured children a place to stay while receiving medical treatment in Bend. The Just Around the Bend Marathon is brought to you by McDonalds, and produced by KTVZ and WillRace Promotions.

About KTVZ
KTVZ has been Central Oregon's market-leading NBC affiliate for over 25 years, providing three hours of local news, sports, and weather each day, as well as award-winning NBC programming. For further information contact KTVZ Promotions / Public Affairs Manager Mat Kurth at 383-2121 or matk@ktvz.com