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2007-2008 Florida Marathon Preview
November 2007
Florida Running and Triathlon

Space Coast Marathon

November 25, 2007

6:30 a.m.

Riverfront Park

S Indian River Dr, Cocoa

Running Zone and Space Coast Runners welcome you to the 36th running of the Space Coast Marathon and Half- Marathon. We invite you to visit Brevard County, home of Kennedy Space Center, our nation's Gateway to Space Exploration. As a participant, you will have a true "space" experience throughout this unbelievably beautiful waterfront course. Astronauts greeting finishers at the finish line, "Space" aid stations, Shuttle Countdown at the start, Best "space" Costume Contest, and much more!

We are extremely excited to have Joan Benoit- Samuelson as the keynote speaker this year, as well as astronauts for photo opportunities and autographs. All finishers receive an Astronaut race medal and a certificate to recognize and commemorate their accomplishment. Each participant receives an official long sleeve technical T- shirt, a beach towel, and entry to an awesome post race celebration. Also, $8,100 in prize money is being offered to the top runners for both the marathon and half marathon!

Denise Piercy -- dpiercy@running-zone.com

Running Zone 321-751-8890

www.spacecoastmarathon.org

X-Country Marathon

November 18, 2007

Alafia River State Park

14326 South CR 39

Lithia

The X-Country is unlike any other run in Florida. It features rolling hills with sweeping views. You will feel like you have been transported to Kentucky on this course. The X-Country race takes place on wide grassy/dirt paths that are easy to run and easy on your body.

Held at Alafia River State Park, these trails are spectacular, and we think you will love the course. So whether you pick the 5K, the half or the full Marathon, come race with us! All pre-registered runners get a long-sleeved shirt with custom artwork. Post-Race Party: Lots of food, DJ & music, and fun. Come race with us!

TampaRaces.com

813-232-5200

jim@tamparaces.com.

Marathon of the Palm Beaches

December 2, 2007

6:00 a.m.

Meyer Amphitheater, Downtown West Palm Beach

The three-day race weekend is packed with race- related and family friendly attractions. Highlights include a 2-day Sports & Fitness Expo on Friday and Saturday at the nationally acclaimed CityPlace, a popular shopping and entertainment district in downtown West Palm Beach. Our flat and fast scenic course has over 16 miles of waterfront vistas.

Finishers receive a commemorative medal and $25,000 in cash will be awarded to the top men and women in the Open, Master's, Florida, and Wheelchair Divisions. There will be a runner's post race party at the Meyer Amphitheater featuring music, food, beverages, our signature champagne and caviar on stage at the awards ceremony, free post race runner massage, and kids activities.


www.marathonpb.com.

Jacksonville Bank Marathon

December 16, 2007

7:00 a.m.

The Bolles School

Jacksonville

If you would like to qualify for the next two Boston Marathons, give the 25th Annual Jacksonville Bank Marathon a try. The course is fast, flat, and 85% shaded. Jacksonville's date allows runners to qualify for two Boston Marathons. But hurry -- the race is limited to 2,500 runners.

The Jacksonville course is fast and very scenic. Trees line major sections of the route. Lack of hills and grades make this a very easy course. This race features a reasonable entry fee, high quality technical shirts, finishers medals, ChampionChip Timing, water and electrolyte stations every two miles, gel at 16 and 19 miles, toilets at several locations, runner's names announced as they finish, and official finish certificates. Runners are treated to a free post race meal, massage, and more at the finish line. The course is open for six hours and the average temperature is 56 degrees.

Doug Alred

www.1stplacesports.com

Tel: 904-731-1900, fax: 904-731-3187

The Florida Marathon

December 29, 2007

8:00 a.m.

National Training Center

Clermont

Looking to challenge yourself this winter holiday? Be a part of the inaugural Florida Marathon, which will take place in beautiful southern Lake and western Orange counties. The course will be on paved bike trails and has some hills. There is also a half-marathon and 5K, making it a great family event. Lodging, car rental, and theme park ticket discounts are available. The marathon is certified and will qualify athletes to run in the Boston and New York Marathons. Don't miss your chance to be a part of a new tradition in Florida.

www.usantc.com

Tel: 888-841-7995, ext 4209

email: tom.ziebart@orhs.org

Walt Disney World Marathon

January 13, 2008

6:00 a.m.

Walt Disney World Resort

Lake Buena Vista

Join us as we commemorate 15 years of dreams, and celebrate the moments that make the WALT DISNEY WORLD(R) Marathon the race where dreams come true. Don't miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to run through the most magical setting in the world and earn an exclusive 15th anniversary medal. You'll run a fast, flat course through Walt Disney World(R) Theme Parks with Disney entertainment along the way. The Half Marathon on Saturday, January 12, 2008 will take runners on a course which begins and ends at Epcot(R).

Disney's Family Fun Run 5K will take place on Friday, January 12 at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. The race will feature an unforgettable finish where you can high- five your favorite Disney characters. The Family Fun Run Kids' Races will be run at a separate time and location as the 5K. The Kids' Races will be run at Disney's Wide World of Sports(R) Complex on both Friday and Saturday.

Travel Package 407-939-7810

email: wdw.disney.sports.travel@disneysports.com

www.disneyworldmarathon.com.

ING Miami Marathon

January 27, 2008

6:15 a.m.

American Airlines Arena - Downtown Miami

Picture yourself running in South Florida's most exciting race in your own backyard. On January 27, 2008 15,000 marathoners will make an appearance at the 6th annual ING Miami Marathon and Half Marathon(R). All of Florida is invited to jump in their car and DRIVE SOUTH FOR THE WINTER! The ING Miami Marathon(R) is a "tour" highlighting the beauty and life of Miami most recognized sites. Experience cruise ship row, Star Island, the heart of Art Deco on South Beach, tree covered streets of Coconut Grove, and the cooling breeze and view of Biscayne Bay.

All runners get a performance shirt, running cap, and more as we make this race memorable! Everyone who finishes will get a unique Spinning Palm Medal, made special for everyone who runs Miami.. It's paradise, enjoy your journey through it and take a piece home with you. Experience paradise...Run Miami!

email: info@INGMiamiMarathon.com

www.INGMiamiMarathon.com

www.myspace.com/ingmiamimarathon; 305-278- 8668.

Orlando Extreme

February 2, 2008

7:30 a.m. / Orlando Wetlands Park / Christmas

The Orlando Xtreme Marathon is one of the best off-road running marathons in Florida and one of the most scenic anywhere! In its 4th year, it is fast becoming a regional favorite. After training and racing in fall and early winter events, use this course designed to alleviate injury to knees, back and joints, to capitalize on your 'Super Fitness.'

The course is staged on berm roads, through fields and on double track firm roads. The marathon course consists of four loops while the half marathon consists of two loops -- this is a great way for supporters to cheer on their favorite runner multiple times.

email: support@buttar.com.

www.buttar.com

888-281-0533

Ocala Marathon

February 3, 2008

7:00 a.m.

Paddack Mall Shopping Center, Ocala

The Ocala Marathon has secured its place as one of the country's best small marathons. Drawing from over 40 states and seven countries last year says something good is happening in Ocala. The marathon is a combination of southern hospitality and a stunning course that you cannot find anywhere else in Florida.

You could imagine you were running thru Kentucky as you pass the picturesque horse farms. This is Marion County, home of the horse farm and the heartland of this great southern state. Tranquil and beautiful. This Ocala Marathon is supported by the popular half and 5k races. The race directors are cool too! No hard rules, attitudes, or committees. Just good folk who put on a great day. Great T's and finishers receive a custom medal. No Florida marathon is quite like Ocala. Every year runners tell how unique the Ocala route is. Come and join us and run through the beauty of South Marion County.

Chris Moling / email: chris@drcsports.com

Info: 352-637-2475; fax: 352-726-2140

www.ocalamarathon.com / www.marathonguide.com

Tallahassee Marathon

February 3, 2008

7:30 am / Florida State University / Mike Long Track

Tallahassee

The Gulf Winds Track Club welcomes you to experience Tallahassee's southern charm at the 34th running of the Tallahassee Marathon and Half Marathon. The course is flat, fast, out-and-back, covering approximately 18 miles on the scenic St. Marks Trail. The race serves as a 2008 and 2009 Boston Marathon qualifying marathon. This year we are offering $5,500 in prize money to the top men and women in the open and masters divisions of the marathon. Overall and age group awards of ceramic platters and mugs will be offered by local artist Brian Bachman. All finishers will receive a medal and a certificate of completion. Runners will be offered a free post race meal, massage, and entertainment at the finish area. The course will be open for six hours. Charities are the Florida Greenways and Trails Foundation and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Last year we experienced record attendance and have initiated a limit of one thousand runners.

www.tallahasseemarathon.com

email: tallahasseemarathon@gmail.com

Jay Silvanima: 850-264-0739

Gasparilla Distance Classic

February 10, 2008

6:00 a.m.

Downtown Tampa

Join us for the Gasparilla Distance Classic race weekend February 8-10, 2008 and discover the treasures of Tampa Bay. Don't miss your opportunity to run a flat, fast, and beautiful waterfront course. Race weekend offers a distance for everyone...the Gasparilla Distance Classic 15K / 5K on Saturday, February 9, followed by Tampa Bay Gasparilla Marathon & Half Marathon on Sunday, February 10. Tampa Bay Gasparilla Marathon runner premiums: long sleeve embroidered Cool Max shirt, oversized multi-colored finisher's medal, results post card, finisher's certificate & Columbia Restaurant "1905" Runner Revive area featuring Columbia's "1905 Salad, Black Beans & Rice & Cuban Bread!

If you're up for a "Challenge," register for the Michelob Ultra Challenge and run Saturday's 15K and 5K and Sunday's marathon. Michelob Ultra Challenge finishers receive a commerative Shirt and Award. There's a "Challenge" for the Half Marathon too...the Bud Light Challenge! Run in TAMPA to experience the cool breezes and exquisite views that the 2008 Gasparilla Distance Classic Race Weekend and Marathon offer.

Susan C Harmeling, Executive Director

www.tampabayrun.com

Tel: 813-254-7866

Pensacola Marathon

February 17, 2008

6:30 a.m.

Downtown Pensacola

On Sunday, February 17, 2008, the third annual Pensacola Marathon & Half Marathon will bring runners to Pensacola for a world-class running event. The marathon, a Boston Marathon qualifier, will play host to runners from around the world and the Pensacola area.

Starting in Historic Downtown Pensacola, this certified marathon course showcases the beauty of the Gulf Coast in a way no other race can. Whether it's the signature canopy of trees on Scenic Highway or the beautiful view of the bay in the morning -- this race has something for everyone. Every finisher will receive a unique medal and an awards ceremony and post-race party will be held to honor the race organizers and winners. During your stay, enjoy downtown Pensacola's historical landmarks, specialty shops, casual eateries, fine restaurants and cultural activities. Don't miss the opportunity to compete in one of the most unique, scenic, and beautiful marathons in the nation!

email: info@pensacolamarathon.com

www.pensacolamarathon.com

Tel: 850-435-9222

26.2 with Donna

February 17, 2008

8:30 a.m.

Jacksonville Beach

Join us for the inaugural run of 26.2 with Donna The National Marathon to Fight Breast Cancer on February 17th in Jacksonville Beach. This beautiful course winds through the beaches communities of Florida's First Coast with the ocean almost constantly in view. A two-mile stretch even takes runners onto our hard packed sand at low tide. Perfect for running! Average lows and highs for the date - 45 and 68 degrees respectively. All marathon and half marathon finishers receive a unique medal. Substantial prize money to top finishers. Water/fuel stations every mile. Boston qualifier. Course open seven hours.

Weekend activities include a kid's marathon, concert, pasta party, golf tournament, race expo, and more. The only U.S. marathon dedicated solely to fighting breast cancer, 100 percent of runner's entrance fees and funds raised go to breast cancer research and care. Fundraising is not mandatory, but the top fundraiser wins a six-day trip to Greece and entrance to the Athens Marathon!

www.breastcancermarathon.com

Tel: 904-355-PINK (7465)

A1A Marathon

February 17, 2008 .

Fort Lauderdale

The ocean is your finish line for the third annual A1A Marathon, February 17, 2008. Fort Lauderdale's premier running event begins at the Museum of Discovery & Science in downtown Fort Lauderdale then heads down historic Las Olas Boulevard lined on either side by boutique shops and sidewalk dining restaurants before continuing along scenic State Road A1A. Almost the entire course boasts ocean views and the race finishes in South Beach Park on popular Fort Lauderdale Beach.

With something for everyone, course entertainments includes bands, cheerleaders, mascots from your favorite South Florida sports teams, enthusiastic spectators, and ample water stops sponsored by local area running clubs and organizations.

The A1A Marathon is an event that runners of all levels can enjoy. The A1A Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifying marathon, the flat course gives runners their best chance to qualify.

Chris Laskey

Exclusive Sports Marketing 561-241-3801 ext 144

www.A1AMarathon.com

www.FamilyFitnessWeekend.com

Five Points of Life Marathon

February 24, 2008

7:00 a.m.

University of Florida campus

Gainesville

Come run for a cause in scenic Gainesville during the 3rd annual Five Points of Life Race Weekend. This Boston qualifier course takes you down the same hills Frank Shorter trained on through the University of Florida campus, including a lap in the Ben Hill Griffin stadium, home to the 2006 National Football champions and historic downtown. The marathon and half marathon start on the University of Florida campus at 7 a.m. on Sunday morning. A post race party at the finish line follows the races. Saturday afternoon includes the Kids Marathon followed by the inaugural 5Points 5K.

All races benefit the Five Points of Life program. Five Points of Life is a program that raises awareness for the need for lifesaving donations of blood, apheresis, cord blood, marrow, and organ/tissue.

bbwhitaker@lifesouth.org

www.fivepointsoflife.org

Tel: 352.224.1728

Sarasota Marathon

March 2, 2008

6:00 a.m.

John & Mable Ringling Museum, Sarasota

The 2008 Sarasota Marathon will continue to impress participants with a fast, flat certified course starting and finishing at the picturesque Ringling Museum, traveling through historic and exclusive waterfront neighborhoods, traversing the stunning John Ringling Bridge; and taking in spectacular views of Sarasota Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, gorgeous beaches, and several of Sarasota's finest parks. The incredible support from the Sarasota City Police and countless friendly volunteers makes this event a run to remember.

In addition, the three-day weekend includes ABC 7 Health & Fitness Expo, Saturday morning 5k/Fun Run. All finishers will receive a specially designed medal and tee shirt. First place in the marathon and half marathon will be awarded a beautifully crafted watch from McCarver & Mosher valued $2,500. Don't miss your chance to participate in one of Florida's best kept secret and premier running event.

info@sarasotamarathon.com

sarasotamarathon.com

Tell: 941-377-8113

Fax: 941-377-4813


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