REGISTRATION FOR 2014 GORE-TEX® PHILADELPHIA MARATHON WEEKEND IS OFF TO THE RACES

MEDIA CONTACTS ONLY:

Randy Giancaterino:215-683-2070

Randy.giancaterino@phila.gov 

Lauren Cox: 215-683-2067

Lauren.cox@phila.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REGISTRATION FOR 2014 GORE-TEX® PHILADELPHIA MARATHON WEEKEND IS OFF TO THE RACES

More than 30,000 runners & 60,000 spectators expected to take part in race activities, from November 21 to 23.

PHILADELPHIA (Monday, March 31, 2014) – The GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon will hit the starting line on Tuesday, April 1 (midnight EST) when registration opens for the full marathon, half marathon and the Rothman Institute 8K.

Emerging from its humble beginnings as a small local event into a top-10 national marathon currently, the race offers participants and spectators alike a fun weekend to experience the marathon as well as the attractions of a world-class city. Marathon participants can get out to a fast start, and enjoy a price break when signing up early for any of the three races, at www.philadelphiamarathon.com.

“The GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon is better than ever, from the start of registration this month to the starting line on November 23 on the Ben Franklin Parkway,” said Desiree Peterkin-Bell, the race’s Executive Director. “Whether you are a participant or a spectator, the marathon appeals to everyone’s interests and talents. Last year, we enjoyed the largest total registration in Philadelphia Marathon history, attracting over 30,000 participants (across three races) from all 50 states and more than 40 countries. We’re building on that success this year and look forward to working with our sponsor GORE-TEX®, as we continue to grow as a premier marathon.” 

The 21st annual marathon will take runners through a 26.2-mile course featuring historic landmarks, gorgeous scenery and vibrant neighborhoods – starting and finishing along the iconic Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The half marathon – also on Sunday, November 23 – will follow part of the same beautiful and historic course. The Rothman Institute 8K will be held on Saturday, November 21. All three races are USA Track & Field-sanctioned and the GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon is a Boston-qualifier. 

Race Weekend officially opens November 21 with a free two-day Health & Fitness Expo, carb-loaded dining options from participating restaurants throughout Philadelphia, and the Kids Fun Run — a short-distance, non-competitive run for children, ages 6 to 14. The popular Rothman 8K Group Challenge also will return for a third year. 

Peterkin-Bell said that last year was a banner year, and 2014 promises to be even better. The race’s partnership with GORE-TEX®, which has an strong presence in the running community, only strengthens Philadelphia’s reputation as a world-class sports city, she added.

As a provider of climate comfort and weather protection in running footwear, the GORE-TEX® Footwear partnership brings greater consumer awareness of the brand’s value for the running community.

“We are excited to once again be the title sponsor ofthe GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon,” said Kirk Christensen, GORE-TEX® Running Footwear Global Leader.  “As this winter proved, the weather can be challenging, and that can mean canceling your run or not training as planned. With key preparation for this race taking place in the unpredictable fall months, the GORE-TEX® products inside some of your favorite running brands and styles, are a great way to guarantee that runners never miss a beat in their training schedules — making every day a “Great Day for a Run!”

W.L. Gore & Associates, manufacturers of the GORE-TEX® product line, are innovative creators of waterproof materials found in recreational outerwear, footwear and gloves. The company’s fabrics and products are known for their low-water absorption and durability. The 56-year-old firm’s materials are waterproof, windproof and breathable, keeping wearers of GORE-TEX® products and comfortable – all attractive features for marathoners. 

Gore has more than 10,000 employees, with manufacturing facilities in the United States, Germany, United Kingdom, Japan and China, as well as sales offices around the world. 

Registration for the Kids Fun Run, Saturday, November 22, is also available online starting April 1. The entry fee in advance and onsite at the Health & Fitness Expo will be $15 again this year. All participants receive a T-shirt, goodie bag, and finisher’s medal upon completion of the race, plus a great family memory!

Registration begins at $85 for the GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon and $70 for the Half Marathon for the first 1,000 participants; and $25 for the 8K through May 30. The complete entry fee schedule is below: 

Philadelphia Marathon – Sunday, November 23

First 1,000 $85

April 1 – 30 $105

May 1 – 31 $115

June 1 – 30 $125

July 1 – Nov. 1* $145

*= or when registration reaches capacity

Philadelphia Half Marathon – Sunday, November 23

First 1,000 $70

April 1 – 30 $85

May 1 – 31 $95

June 1 – 30 $105

July 1 – Nov. 1* $125

*= or when registration reaches capacity

Rothman Institute 8K – Saturday, November 22

April 1 – May 31 $25

June 1 – 30 $30

July 1 – 31 $35

August 1 – Nov. 1* $45

*= or when registration reaches capacity

Rothman Institute 8K Group Rates (5 or More Participating in Group Competition)

April 1 – May 31 $20

June 1 – 30 $25

July 1 – 31 $30

August 1 – Nov. 1* $35

*= or when registration reaches capacity

The GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon weekend attracts more than 3,000 volunteers, 30,000 runners and 60,000 spectators. Race Weekend features the GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon and Half Marathon on Sunday, November 23; the Rothman Institute 8K and Kids Fun Run on Saturday, November 22, and a free two-day Health & Fitness Expo Friday, November 21 and Saturday, November 22. Race participants 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. Be sure to connect with us on Facebook (facebook.com/philadelphiamarathon), Twitter (@philly_marathon) and Instagram (@philly_marathon) to stay up to date with the latest GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon news.

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