Philadelphia Marathon Nears Registration Capacity

Organizers now turn efforts to making Philadelphia marathoning’s best host city.

(PHILADELPHIA) August 20, 2010 – The 17^th annual Philadelphia Marathon is sprinting to the finish line and reaching its capacity, as organizers turn their efforts to making Philadelphia marathoning’s best host city.  More than 20,000 runners, families, spectators and residents will enjoy an expanded calendar of Race Weekend activities.

Registration has surpassed last year’s total at this time, with more than 15,000 runners signed up for the event’s three races since registration opened April 1. So far, more than 9,500 runners have registered for the marathon, which has a capacity of 11,000. The marathon is on target to sell out earlier than ever before in its 17-year history, reflecting a trend world-wide of the sport’s growing popularity.  Spaces are open for the Half Marathon and Rothman Institute 8K, but they are expected to fill up quickly as race-day approaches.  

“We are excited to welcome the more than 20,000 expected runners to Marathoning’s best host city,” said Marathon Executive Director Melanie Johnson. “Our spectators are passionate and it’s a true city-wide event with great collaboration involving our hotels, restaurants, retailers, more than 2,000 volunteers, runners and charitable organizations.”

The course is fast and you should be, too! Race organizers encourage runners to avoid the last-minute rush and secure your spot by registering on-line at www.philadelphiamarathon.com.

Registration for the marathon is $125. Registration is $100 for the half marathon and $45 for the Rothman Institute 8K. Last year, more than 20,000 runners registered to participate in the marathon, half marathon and Rothman Institute 8K.

Marathoning’s best host city welcomes more than 20,000 runners to Philadelphia for a family-friendly series of events over Philadelphia Marathon Race Weekend, November 20-22, 2010.

Produced and hosted by the City of Philadelphia, Marathon Race Weekend features four races in a city “born to run” — the 17^th annual Philadelphia Marathon, Philadelphia Half Marathon, Rothman Institute 8K, and a Kids Fun Run.  Other activities to welcome runners, families, friends, spectators, businesses and residents include a free two-day Health & Fitness Expo; a free course map complete with city discounts and promotions; 22 spectator cheer zones; and an enhanced pre-race pasta party. Runners pass many of Philadelphia’s famous attractions on the swift and scenic USATF-certified course, which is a Boston qualifier. Take the first step to experiencing 26.2 miles of fun, beauty, history and excitement by visiting www.philadelphiamarathon.com.