Press Release - Houston Marathon - 12/12/13

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
             Houston Marathon Committee Race Advisory Security
  
The safety of all runners and spectators is the highest priority of the 
Houston Marathon Committee. We are fortunate to work in close collaboration 
with HPD and our federal, state, and city agency partners to ensure the 
safety of our event.

There are a number of new security precautions in place for this year's 
race. It is our goal to implement the necessary security features to 
enhance your race week experience.

Please prepare accordingly for the following changes: 

Packet Pick-Up 

-All runners must have a valid, government-issued photo identification to 
pick up their packets.

-If picking up for a friend, you will need a signed copy of their final 
confirmation along with a printed copy of their government-issued photo 
identification.

Baggage Inspection

-All bags and items entering Marathon venues and events may be subject to 
search.

-To expedite longer lines and avoid possible bag searches throughout race 
weekend, the HMC strongly discourages bringing any type of backpacks or 
large bags other than the race-issued Gear Check bag.   

Race Day

-Clear Gear Check Bags will be provided to all registered runners at Packet 
Pick-Up in the EXPO on Friday and Saturday, January 17 and 18.  Runners may 
check the clear bag at Gear Check in the GRB on Sunday or in Discovery 
Green for the ABB 5K on Saturday. 

-Clear bags that contain other bags will not be accepted.

-Arrive early to avoid any delays on race morning. The GRB will open to 
runners at 5:00 a.m.    

-All bags may be subject to search.  

Spectators

-There will be checkpoints to enter the finish line viewing areas.  
Spectators are discouraged from bringing bags to the finish line area.   

-Spectators can watch the finish from the bleachers on the Discovery Green 
side of the finish line, as well as from the corner of Lamar and Avenida de 
las Americas.      

-There will be no viewing access near the finish line on the Convention 
Center side of Avenida de las Americas. Spectators will have access to the 
pedestrian bridge to move north and south, however no standing will be 
permitted and views will be blocked in this area.  

Prohibited Items

-All items deemed to be dangerous or inappropriate will be confiscated or 
denied entrance at the sole discretion of security personnel.    
 
See Something, Say Something

-If you see suspicious behavior, make the call.   
-Notify a race official, uniformed official or call 9-1-1. 

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