Press Release - Little Rock Marathon - 8/08/03

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                    Contact:  Geneva Hampton
                                                   Little Rock Marathon
                                                   (501) 371-4639

       REGISTRATION FOR LITTLE ROCK MARATHON TRAINING PROGRAM 
                    UNDERWAY IN LITTLE ROCK
        Build Up Program and Official Marathon Training Begin 
                   Sept. 1 for 26.2 Mile Race

Arkansans can began registering now for the Little Rock Marathon Training
Program, a free four-month physical conditioning program that will prepare
both beginners and experienced runners and walkers to participate in a
26.2-mile race.  After completing the program, participants will be 
prepared to take part in the second annual Little Rock Marathon in Little 
Rock, Arkansas, on Sunday, March 7, 2004.  Funds raised from the Little 
Rock Marathon will benefit programs offered by Little Rock Parks and 
Recreation. The Little Rock Marathon is presented by the Arkansas 
Democrat-Gazette and is a multi race event.  In addition to the marathon, 
there is a ½ marathon (13.1 miles), 4-person relay (4 individuals covering 
the 26.2 mile course), Little Rockers Kids Marathon (26.2 miles over a 4 to 
5 month period), and a family 5K.  Participants can run or walk any of the 
events.  The marathon events have an eight-hour time limit.

"We had 350 people in the 2003 training program and want to double that if
we can." said Tom Singleton, volunteer training coach and marathon
organizer.

"The Build Up Program or pre-marathon training will prepare a person to run
a 10K (6.2 miles). This training begins Sept. 9 and will last six weeks.
This will be followed by training for the marathon beginning Oct. 13 and
concluding on Feb. 28, 2004," said Singleton.  "Interested participants
should attend the organizational meetings. The Build Up Program meeting 
will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 28 at War Memorial Fitness Center. The 
Official Marathon Training Program organizational meeting will be held at 
6:30 p.m. on Sept. 25, also at War Memorial Fitness Center."

War Memorial Fitness Center is located at 300 South Monroe in Little Rock.
"Finishing a marathon requires remarkable determination," said Singleton.
"Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned athlete, there's a place for you
in the Little Rock Marathon.  Once registered, participants will undertake 
a four-month training program tailored to individual fitness levels and 
their desire to run or walk the marathon."

The Little Rock Marathon Training Program has been developed by UALR Cross
Country/Track & Field Team Head Coach Kirk Elias.  Overseeing the weekly
training will be Singleton and his wife Hobbit Singleton, and Fred Klinge.
Tom Singleton encourages individuals interested in starting a group outside
of Little Rock to call 501-371-4639 or email 
ghampton@littlerock.state.ar.us for more information. Registration forms 
for training and the marathon can be obtained at the Little Rock Marathon 
office at 501-371-4770 or online at www.littlerockmarathon.com.

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