FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Veterans Marathon to serve as Road Runners of America State Championship

COLUMBIA CITY (January 14, 2012) – The Road Runners of America (RRCA) has
selected the 2012 Veterans Marathon and Half Marathon in Columbia City as
Indiana state championship events.

RRCA is a nation-wide organization of running clubs with a combined total
of 50,000 individual members.

"This is just one more in a series of steps we've taken to improve the
quality and prestige of the Veterans Marathon," said race director Gary
Bird.

The Veterans Marathon, set for November 10th, is in its fourth year and was
chosen over several other race directors in the state that bid for the
honor. During December RRCA officials visited Columbia City and the
Veterans Marathon venue before making their final decision.

"I was surprised and honored that we were awarded the championships for
both races," said Bird.

Last year the Fort4Fitness in Fort Wayne hosted the half-marathon state
championship and the Monumental Marathon in Indianapolis hosted the
marathon championship.

Bird thinks this year's state championship races and support by the RRCA
may eventually enable him to host the National RRCA Marathon and
Half-Marathon Championships.

According to Bird, Veterans Marathon has also submitted bids to host the
"50 States Marathon and Half Marathon Clubs" for their fall reunion runs.
The 50 States Club is another national organization of runners whose goal
is to complete at least one marathon in all 50 states.

"We hope to hear the outcome of our bid to the 50 States Club within the
next few weeks," said Bird. "We are always looking to draw more runners,
spectators, and volunteers and increase local business participation to
honor our veterans."

Bird said local residents and several organizations have embraced the race
and provide aid stations, ensure safety, and encourage runners along the
course.

More information on the November 10th Veterans Marathon and Half Marathon
is available at www.veteransmarathon.com.

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