US Champion to run Full Marathon in the Blue Nose International Marathon

Date: 2005

Author: Sarah Moses

US Champion to run Full Marathon in the Blue Nose International Marathon

Dick Beardsley best known for his 'duel in the sun' with Albert Salazar during 1982 Boston Marathon

Halifax, NS - The Blue Nose International Marathon organizing committee announced today that one of the world's best-known marathoners, Dick Beardsley, is coming to Nova Scotia to run the Crystal Light/Super Store Full Marathon in May.

The second annual Blue Nose Marathon is set to run on May 22nd 2005, with events ranging from The Head Shoppe Team Relay, The Chronicle Herald 10k, The Volkswagen Half Marathon, The Crystal Light/Super Store Full Marathon and the Doctor's Nova Scotia Youth Run. The event attracts runners of all levels of experience, and event weekend has a full slate of activities including a Health and Sport Expo and the popular pre-race MT&L Great Big Pasta Party.

"It's great inspiration for other runners to have someone with Dick's experience running in this event. Dick's story is great motivation for runners who have overcome their own personal challenges to participate in the Blue Nose Marathon," said Rod McCulloch, co-chair of the event.

Beardsley is a two-time champion, (1981 & 1982) at the Duluth Minnesota Grandma's Marathon, course record holder (2:08:37- 1981) Grandma's Marathon, champion and course record holder (2:16:30 - 1987) Napa Valley Marathon, and the 1981 London Marathon champion. He currently holds the fourth-fastest US men's marathon time (Boston 1982), and is a two-time Olympic Trials Marathon qualifier (1980 and 1988).

Beardsley is perhaps best remembered for his unforgettable duel with Albert Salazar during the 1982 Boston Marathon. Beardsley lost the 'duel in the sun' by two seconds, making it the closest Boston finish ever. In Halifax, Beardsley will run the full marathon on Sunday, May 22, 2005. He will also be the keynote speaker at the Great Big Pasta Party on May 21.

"I am delighted to be a part of the Blue Nose International Marathon," said Beardsley. "This marathon has something for everyone, whether you are young or old, ready to run the full marathon or the 10K, this event has a challenge for everyone to conquer. I look forward to running the streets of Halifax and participating in this event."

Beardsley started running in high school for the cross-country team. Full of enthusiasm for the sport, he went on to compete in many events such as Olympic trials, the London Marathon and the Boston Marathon.

Beardsley's career as a competitive marathoner was not always glorious. Plagued by injuries from several accidents - some doctors believed he would never walk again - he developed an addiction to prescription painkillers. After seeking professional help Beardsley emerged in 1997, drug free. Beardsley's regained his strength and runs competitively today.

"Dick's life story is one of incredible peaks and valleys," said Gerald Walsh co-chair of the Blue Nose International Marathon. "I know everyone will be inspired after learning about his experiences."

A self-proclaimed 'survivor', Beardsley continues to run marathons. In addition to running, Beardsley works in television and as a fishing guide in Detroit Lakes, MN.  He also speaks about his remarkable triumphs and tribulations at functions all across North America.

The Blue Nose International Marathon is the people's marathon - with the diversity to encourage and challenge runners of all levels, first timers and seasoned marathoners. The Blue Nose International Marathon is set for May 20-22, 2005 (Victoria Day Weekend) and the weekend's events will include: the Crystal Light Full Marathon, the Volkswagen Half Marathon, The Chronicle Herald 10k Race, the Head Shoppe Team Relay Marathon, and the Doctors Nova Scotia Youth Run.

 
For more information please contact:
Sarah Moses
Media Relations, Blue Nose International Marathon
(902)-425-1860 ext 258
smoses@mctl.ca