Posted: October 2, 2007

Athletics: Numbers increase for the 28th Royal Victoria Marathon

(Victoria, BC – October 1, 2007). With under a week to go until the 28th Royal Victoria Marathon registrations for the marathon are up compared to 2006. Numbers show a 2.3% increase over the total number registered last year, with over 2,300 registered for the race to be held on Sunday, October 7. With the Half Marathon, 8K Road Race and the THRIFTY FOODS Kids Run registrations are now over 8,400 with registrations increasing daily. With a daily average of 40 – 50 online registrations, the total number of participants could reach 9,000 by race day. Bob Reid, president of the Royal Victoria Marathon Society, attributes the increase in the marathon numbers to two factors. “We have been promoting the marathon in other markets a little more this year, and Victoria is a popular destination for runners to return to, following a pleasant experience in a previous year. With the Half Marathon and the 8K Road Race we are also offering runners a choice which is reflected in the overall numbers.” The Royal Victoria Marathon will see both 2006 champions returning to defend their titles. Steve Osaduik – who broke the 25-year record last year – and Suzanne Evans are registered. Both want to run another personal best this year – Osaduik finished in 2:16:47 and Evans in 2:47:03. Colin Dignum and Kevin Titus – former winners in 2000 and 1993 – will also be at the start line as will Joan McGrath, the 2003 women’s champion. Other notable elite runners include local favourites Bruce Deacon and Lucy Smith who will be running the Half Marathon. This year will see them competing as masters for the first time in Victoria, with both hoping to set course, provincial and national records. The men’s stands at 1:06:56 and the women’s at 1:18:43. The race will also see two-time Ironman champion Lori Bowden competing in the marathon – her first race as a master since she turned 40 in June. Online registration for the Royal Victoria Marathon is open until Thursday October 4 at 12:00 noon. Go to www.royalvictoriamarathon.com to register. Subscribe to the Runner's Web Weekly Digest