USAF Marathon registration opens New Year in big way

Published Jan. 4, 2010
By Derek Kaufman
88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- If opening day registration is any indicator, this year's U.S. Air Force Marathon is going to be the biggest by far in the event's 14-year history.

Marathon officials said special New Year's Day pricing attracted more than 1,000 registered runners for affiliated events. The U.S. Air Force Marathon is Sept. 18, 2010, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

"Our New Year's Day registration campaign was a huge success," said Molly Louden, race director. "Last year we didn't cross the 1,000 runner threshold until May. We have a cap on each race this year and I anticipate we will hit the caps for each race by early summer."

Maximum number of runners in each race or cap are: 3,000 for the marathon; 5,000 for the half marathon; 2,000 for the 10K and 2,000 for the 5K.

The 2009 marathon attracted nearly 10,000 runners.

The U.S. Air Force Marathon is held each September to coincide with the anniversary of the creation of the Air Force as a separate branch of the U.S. military. Race events include a marathon, with a wheeled and visually impaired division, half marathon and 10K which start and finish on the grounds of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. An affiliated 5K race will take place Sept. 17, conducted in partnership with neighboring Wright State University.

Ms. Louden said most of the sign-ups to date were for the full and half marathon.

"This year we've incorporated a Facebook page to increase our communication with runners. We've experienced wonderful compliments from people telling us that participating in our race was the most fun they've had while running. Aircraft flyovers, a historic, picturesque route and enthusiastic spectators combine to make a really special experience," Ms. Louden added.

No military affiliation is required to run. For more information and to register, visit the marathon web site at www.usafmarathon.com.