Posted: February 14, 2005

Athletics: Houston Marathon Becomes Running USA Sustaining Patron

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - (February 14, 2005) - The Houston Marathon, a long-time leader in the sport, has become a sustaining patron of Running USA, the professional trade organization of the sport. At the recent Running USA Conference in San Diego, Brant Kotch, the Houston Marathon race director, presented a $10,000 check to Nick Curl, Running USA vice president.

"We strongly support the mission of Running USA, and this check affirms our commitment to its objectives. We encourage other Running USA members to join us as sustaining patrons," said Kotch.

"The Houston Marathon's generous $10,000 donation is very much appreciated, and sustaining patrons like Houston enable Running USA to further build the sport and expand its reach," said Basil Honikman, Running USA executive director.

About The Houston Marathon
The Houston Marathon, a Running USA Founding Member, is the nation's premier winter marathon, annually attracting participants from all 50 U.S. states and nearly 20 foreign countries. In 2005, more than 20,000 runners - an event record - took part in four marathon weekend events (marathon, half-marathon, 5K and children's run). More than 5,000 volunteers organize the race, which is Houston's largest single-day sporting event.

The 2006 Houston Marathon will be held on January 15, and again, the event will host the USA Men's Half-Marathon Championship. For more information on the Houston Marathon, call (713) 957-3453 or visit its website at: www.houstonmarathon.com

About Running USA
Running USA is dedicated to improving the status of road running and raising its awareness among the public and corporate America and supporting and developing American world-class stars. Founded in March 1999 with USA Track & Field, its membership - over 140 strong - includes major U.S. road races, running organizations, members of the athletic industry, athlete legends and media.

Its event members represent over 300 U.S. races including many of the leading ones with over 1.7 million participants and millions of spectators and over $4.5 million in prize money. For more information on Running USA, its objectives and members, call Ryan Lamppa at (805) 696-6232 or visit its website at: RunningUSA.org.

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
www.runningusa.org.