Posted: June 12, 2006

Athletics: Olympian Marla Runyan to Race at Guidant Heart of Summer Women's Distance Festival 10K

MINNEAPOLIS - (June 8, 2006) - Two-time U.S. Olympian and nationally prominent Oregon distance runner Marla Runyan has signed on to compete at the Guidant Heart of Summer Women's Distance Festival 10K on Saturday, August 19. Runyan, who had been on maternity leave since giving birth to her daughter in September 2005, recently began racing again. In April, the Eugene resident returned to competition by running and winning the women's 10,000 meters at the Oregon Invitational.

The Guidant Heart of Summer is home to the RRCA and USATF Minnesota 10K State Championships. Runyan, 37, will compete against last year's winner and state record-holder, Katie McGregor of Team USA Minnesota, as well as other elite athletes from across the country.

"Coming back from having my daughter, Anna, has been a true adventure of ups and downs," said Marla Runyan, a three-time USA 5000m and 5K champion. "After much work, I have come around and I think this might be my best year ever. I am so excited to race again, and I will always look forward to seeing my husband and daughter at the finish line."

Registration for the Guidant Heart of Summer 5K and 10K events is now open. To register on-line, go to Active.com or HeartofSummer.org to download a registration form.

Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Director
(805) 696-6232; Fax = (805) 659-0016
Ryan@RunningUSA.org
www.RunningUSA.org.

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