Additional race dates will coincide with training schedule for September event
AKRON, Ohio (Sept. 26, 2014) – The Akron Marathon announced today the creation of the Rubber City Race Series beginning in 2015. The series will feature two additional event dates on June 27 (8k and 1 Mile) and August 15 (Half Marathon and 10k), in conjunction with the original marquee race September 26 (Full Marathon, Half Marathon, Team Relay, Kids Fun Run).
Registration for all of the 2015 Rubber City Race Series events will open Nov. 21, 2014, with incentives geared towards running multiple events.
“We felt like this was a natural evolution of the Akron Marathon experience,” said Akron Marathon Executive Director Anne Bitong. “Over the past 12 years, we’ve become known for our world-class runner experience and that will carry over to our new events.
“We’ve also timed the two new dates to coincide with training milestones leading up to our featured event in September. We think this will provide a great opportunity for those who’ve never participated before to get involved with the Akron Marathon through the Rubber City Race Series. In addition, the four new courses – as well as a revamped marathon course – will cover a large portion of the city.”
The June races will conclude with the Thirsty Dog Blues & Brews Finisher Festival Experience. The one-mile run will be fast and flat, while the 8k will offer a unique distance for both new and seasoned runners.
The August half marathon and 10k will start at the new Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. Global Headquarters and will feature the Goodyear Proving Grounds for the half and 10k, as well as Derby Downs and the Goodyear Airdock on the half marathon course.
September’s main event will debut a new course, but will include the same great runner amenities, highlighted by the Olympic-style finish at Canal Park Stadium.
According to a recent study conducted by Kent State University, the two additional dates are expected to contribute an additional $1.6 million to the economy. It’s estimated the September race alone is responsible for generating roughly $6 million in economic impact.
“When we began this race in 2003, it was designed to energize the running community and the city of Akron as a whole,” said Akron Marathon Founder Steve Marks. “We’ve been overwhelmed by the response and it’s extremely gratifying to be able to continue to grow the race in this manner. This wouldn’t be possible without the tremendous support we’ve received from the city, our sponsors and the thousands of volunteers and spectators who have made this race what it is today.”
Basic information on the series can be found at www.RubberCityRaceSeries.org with a full launch of a new website scheduled for November. Additional details regarding cumulative scoring, incentives and race courses will follow as well.
The Akron Marathon, which consists of four events including the full and half marathon, the five-person team relay and the Kids Fun Run, has grown by more than 10,000 participants since the inaugural event in 2003. The Akron Marathon offers the community a health-focused, fun-filled occasion that draws thousands of participants and spectators each year. The 12th annual event will be held Sept. 27, 2014, and features sold out relay and half marathon events.