On Your Marks. Get Set. Giv'er - Blue Nose International Marathon Celebrates Four Years Running

Date: March 9th, 2007

Author: Lori Ann Comeau

On Your Marks. Get Set. Giv'er

Blue Nose International Marathon Celebrates Four Years Running

March 9, 2007 (Halifax, NS) - Close to 6,300 runners and walkers took to the streets during the 2006 Blue Nose International Marathon, the biggest turnout to date.  This year, marathon organizers aim to break that record with 7,500 participants on race weekend, May 18-20, 2007.

"We are excited the marathon helps people get fit, and it"s obviously catching on.  Even more exciting is that so many of our participants inspire others through their own personal stories of strength and courage," says Gerry Walsh, co-chair of the Blue Nose International Marathon. "The beauty of Blue Nose is that it welcomes people of all different fitness levels and ages. Anyone can get involved and have fun."

Officially launched today at Spring, the "people's marathon" includes the Full Marathon, the Volkswagon Half Marathon, the Chronicle Herald 10k Run, the Rogers 5k Run/Walk, the Head Shoppe YMCA Team Relay, and the Doctors Nova Scotia Youth Run.

Lacing up again this year is Team Myles, representatives from each of the six race categories.  Professional trainers will help prepare this group over the next two months.  Team members include Bill Murphy (Full Marathon); Chris Clarke (Half Marathon); Candace Weaver and Joe McGuire (10K); Anne James (5K); Tammy Miller (Team Relay); and Oxford Elementary School (Youth Run).  Track the team's progress as they blog their triumphs and training on www.bluenosemarathon.com 

"I've been training hard with the goal of finishing the 10K," says Joe McGuire, first year marathon participant, Team Myles member and past volunteer.  "I have a number of friends and colleagues in different Blue Nose events and as volunteers.  It's one way we all welcome in spring and be more active."

As presenting sponsor, Scotiabank sees the benefits of Blue Nose.  "Scotiabank is committed to supporting the communities where we live and work.  We are proud to be a corporate sponsor of this exciting,  fun event that encourages healthy exercise, builds community spirit  and supports our kids," says Helen Quinlan-Hainse, District Vice  President, Southwest Nova Scotia, Scotiabank, Atlantic Region.

For the 2007 Blue Nose International Marathon, the Doctors Nova Scotia Youth Run will start/finish at Saint Mary's Huskies Stadium.  This route will now include a run through Point Pleasant Park.  The start/finish line for the other race events is now on North Park Street near the historic Halifax Armoury.

Media Contact:

Lori Ann Comeau

Blue Nose International Marathon

C: (902) 448 1891

W: (902) 425 1448

E: loriann@cheerful.com