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University community to celebrate participants as they run through campus
LONG BEACH, Calif. - The course for the 24th Long Beach International City Bank Marathon - nationally known for its scenic mix of oceanside views and city landmarks - just got more scenic and fun.
California State University, Long Beach, and International City Racing have announced that the marathon course has been changed to allow participants to run through the picturesque campus eliminating a lonely stretch on Studebaker Road which was miles 16-17-18 of the marathon. The university and campus community is expected to be out in force to welcome and cheer on the runners as they pass through.
The university has exciting plans to have their cheerleaders, pep band and the school's mascot - Prospector Pete - welcome runners as they enter campus. Bands, athletic teams, Greek organizations and student groups will line the course and cheer, with the school awarding prizes to the groups showing the most spirit.
"Cal State Long Beach has a tradition of being a place where people come to test their skills and to strive to do the best they can," said President F. King Alexander. "Our university is very excited to host those who will be participating in the Long Beach International City Bank Marathon. We promise them a beautiful location every step of their way through our campus, and students and others who will make sure to let them know they're welcome and doing a great job."
"The runners are going to love this part of the course," said Bob Seagren, CEO of ICR. "The environment should be fantastic as the university is going to throw a big party on race day to celebrate all the runners as they pass through campus. This is especially important around mile 17 thru 20 as this is when runners sometimes "hit the wall" and lose the energy to complete the event. It will be very motivating for them. Running through the campus will create a fantastic experience for everyone."
Most of marathon course remains the same - especially the scenic parts along the beach and ocean. The changes will only affect the marathon route. Miles 12-13 take in the spectacular scenery of Marine Stadium, and the Long Beach Marina. After leaving Marine Stadium, runners circle Colorado Lagoon and head towards California State University, Long Beach. Miles 17 & 18 will now travel directly through the campus and pass popular community icons including the Walter Pyramid and the Carpenter Performing Arts Center. Mile 19 passes Bixby Hill, site of the historic Rancho Los Alamitos, then Pass Recreation Park, Blair Field and the Colorado Lagoon, the homestretch is now in sight.
More than 18,000 runners, walkers and cyclists are expected to be competing in the 24th Long Beach International City Bank Marathon events on Sunday, October 12, 2008. This years event includes a marathon, half-marathon, recreational Marathon Bike Tour, the Run Forrest Run 5K and the Kids 1 Mile Fun Run. All participants receive an event t-shirt and race goodie-bag. Finishers in the marathon, half-marathon, and Bike Tour will receive a commemorative finisher's medal. In a continuing tradition, wheelchair and handcycle participants can compete in the marathon.
For more information on the Long Beach International City Bank Marathon, please visit RunLongBeach.co or call (562) 427-4606.
Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Director
(805) 696-6232; Fax = (805) 659-0016
Ryan@RunningUSA.org
www.RunningUSA.org.
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