SC Logo for Press ReleaseFor Immediate Release:
May 11, 2012

For more information:   
Ashley Shimer
360-750-1553 Ext. 20
ashimer@vancouverusasports.com 

VANCOUVER USA MARATHON SPONSORS FATHER'S DAY WEEKEND OF FUN AND FESTIVITIES
Marathon encourages local community to turn out for annual marathon events

VANCOUVER, Wash. - The Vancouver USA Marathon is bringing energy and excitement to downtown Vancouver for Father's Day weekend; June 15-17. The Vancouver USA Marathon's primary goal is to provide a locally produced, recognized, and organized race that not only attracts runners, but also local businesses and area residents to be part of this second annual event.

"Last year we were so focused on pulling off the inaugural race, we didn't have a lot of time to focus on anything else. This year, we are focusing much more on involving the local community," said Brian Davis, Race Director and Owner of Energy Events, which manages the Vancouver USA Marathon. "We live here, work here, shop here, and want local business to be represented as people come downtown to enjoy the festivities. We're giving the people of Vancouver entertainment because they live here and love it here. We want to include everyone in the weekend's fun events-even if they're not runners themselves!"

Prior to the marathon on Sunday, June 17, there will be plenty of activities leading up to the race. On Friday and Saturday, Fit Right NW will sponsor a free Sports and Fitness expo at the Hilton Vancouver. Runners can register for the event and pick up their race packets as well as view the latest in athletic goods, services, and products.

A beer garden will also be open in conjunction with the marathon. Starting at 5pm on Friday night and open again on Saturday from 10am to 3 pm, the beer garden features free entry to the general public and will include Northwest as well as national beers and live music. During these hours on Saturday, race festivities begin with the Freedom 5k run and wrap up with the kid's marathon program.

"The focus is staying true to a runner's event, but how often have we heard 'Think globally, act locally.' That's what we're doing, embracing the community and welcoming people to the race and all the great events included with it," said Tim Ahaus, Marketing Consultant for the Vancouver USA Marathon. "We want to share the excitement with everyone in Vancouver!"

The Vancouver USA Marathon, which features a half and full marathon, will start on Sunday morning. The marathon is a well-designed course that highlights some of the most scenic spots in Vancouver and features safe, even terrain. To encourage the runners and energize the crowd, local bands will be playing along the route. Applications are still being accepted for route bands.All of these weekend events, including a wrap up party on Sunday with an awards ceremony, beer garden, and live entertainment, will be based at Esther Short Park. The park will also be hosting the Downtown Vancouver Farmers Market on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

The Vancouver USA Marathon already has over 1,500 runners/walkers registered and has the goal of
5,000 full and half marathon runners/walkers for this annual race. For more information about the race and sponsors, visit www.vancouverUSAmarathon.com, or contact Brian Davis at Brian@EnergyEvents.com or 360-909-0211.


About Vancouver USA Regional Sports Commission
The Vancouver USA Regional Sports Commission, a division of the Vancouver USA Regional Tourism Office, works to promote Vancouver USA and Clark County, Washington, as a sports event destination, while positively influencing the quality of life and economic vitality in Clark County. For more information call 360-750-1553, or visit www.VancouverUSAsports.com.

About Vancouver USA Marathon
The Vancouver USA Marathon is a creation from Energy Events and is being held over the course of three days on June 15, 16 and 17; June 17 is the day of the actual marathon. The VUM also offers a half marathon, a 5k race, a kids run, and will be a Boston Marathon qualifier. Walkers are encouraged to participate as well. The Vancouver USA Marathon is being developed in close collaboration with a core committee, along with the City of Vancouver, and other sponsors.

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