For Immediate Release
Ocean State Marathon Loses Sponsor
December 22, 2002
After five years as title sponsor of the Ocean State Marathon, Brooks
Pharmacy withdrew support of the event last week. The Brooks decision to end
the association, which saw the marathon grow into one of the most
competitive in the United States, was based on low overall entrant numbers
and economics. The event, including the addition of a companion half
marathon, is scheduled for October 12, Columbus Day weekend, at
Providence, RI.
"We will actively seek a new title sponsor in the next few weeks," said Race
Director Gerry Beagan. "As one of the premier marathons in the nation, Ocean
State provides an excellent, established event with an exciting metropolitan
venue. With enthusiastic sponsors to partner with the race committee,
volunteers and the people of Rhode Island there's ample opportunity for
expansion of the entrant base."
Last year's race drew over 1,100 runners from 40 states and over a dozen
foreign nations. The men's and women's division winning times by Elly Rono
of Kenya (2:14:58) and Victoria Klimina of Russia (2:28:30) were surpassed
only by the Chicago, Boston and New York City as marathons with times under
2:15 for men and 2:29 for women.
"Obviously, we provide a superb stage for competition and performance by
talented athletes but we have always catered to the needs of every entrant.
From t-shirts, program books, medallions, Championchip timing, indoor
facilities before the start and after the finish to post race massage and
hot refreshments we see to the needs of every marathoner as if he or she is
a champion," Beagan said.
The Ocean State Marathon, entering the 11th year since being revived in
1993, is run entirely in Providence on a figure eight course, starting at
the state Capitol and finishing at the RI Convention Center, which takes
runners on a veritable tour of the "Renaissance" city with numerous
spectator vantage points.
For more information please contact:
Ocean State Marathon, 5 Division Street, East Greenwich, RI 02818.
Telephone: (401)885-4499
Fax: (401)885-3188
E-mail: osm26@ids.net
Web site: osm26.com
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