Press Release - Beirut Marathon - 9/28/07

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

                 Beirut, Lebanon... 18th November 2007

Amidst a city ravaged by war and terrorism it is the phoenix of sports that 
will rise once again from the ashes to show the beauty and splendor of a 
country otherwise known for its horrific past. The BLOM Beirut Marathon 07 
will take place against the backdrop of the much televised turbulent 
political crises and indecision over presidential elections.

May El Khalil, President of the Beirut Marathon Association, says, “the 
Marathon in Lebanon is a symbol of unity and encompasses the spirit of 
every true Lebanese – to be one; to run together; to run for peace”.

Last year's marathon took place just seven days after the assassination of 
the Trade and Industry Minister, and yet the race went ahead attracting 
almost 20,000 runners to the 10k and over 50 nationalities participated in 
the marathon. Managing Director Mark Dickinson says that the race this year 
will be much more competitive as the track has been completely re-routed to 
avoid the long drawn out hills of Beirut. The IAAF measurer Norrie 
Williamson suggests that a time of around 2:10 to 2:12 will be achievable. 
There remains one difficult hill at around the 35 km point, entitled horror 
hill, where plenty of music and entertainment has been added to push the 
runners up the hill.

The BLOM Beirut Marathon this year is looking to be an exciting event, not 
just from a race perspective, but from a nation-building angle, and expects 
to see all of the regions of the country gathering together under the 
umbrella of the marathon to have a day of running. Several Ethiopian 
athletes have signed up, including Shitaye Gemechu and Asnake Fekadu. The 
event also attracts several elite athletes from across the Arab world and 
North Africa. 

The BLOM Beirut Marathon is recognized by the IAAF as a qualifying race for 
the Beijing Olympics and is certified by AIMS.

The BMA welcomes all international accredited journalists providing 
accommodation free of charge during the race weekend.

For all other sponsors and media partners check www.beirutmarathon.org.


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