Nationwide Better Health Columbus Marathon Announces New Course for 2008

(September 5, 2008 From Running USA wire) COLUMBUS, Ohio - For the first time in nine years, the Nationwide Better Health Columbus Marathon will feature a new and improved course for its 29th edition on Sunday, October 19.

Known among the running and walking community for its flat, fast course that is great for beginners and those trying to qualify for the Boston Marathon, the Nationwide Better Health Columbus Marathon race organizers have taken action this year to create a new and improved route. It will still include favorite neighborhoods such as Bexley, Olde Town East, German Village, Ohio State University, Upper Arlington, Victorian Village and the Arena District, and this year will also include another Columbus favorite, Grandview Heights.

"The course has been one of our greatest assets over the past 29 years," said Scott Weaver, executive race director. "The changes we are making are merely in response to comments and suggestions provided by past participants, volunteers and spectators for ways to make the course even better."

These changes are more comprehensive than previous course changes, which involved the same course, but in a reverse direction. The first change runners will notice is the new start line. Instead of starting at Broad and High St., this year's course will start one block east at Third and Broad.

Another big change athletes will notice is that the ½ marathoners will be with the marathoners until they break off on Nationwide Blvd. to go to the finish. In the past, those participating in the ½ marathon were separated from the full marathoners and reunited with them later on the course. The finish line for both will remain on Nationwide Boulevard next to Nationwide Arena.

For more information on the Nationwide Better Health Columbus Marathon and ½ Marathon, or to take a look at this year's new and improved course, visit http://www.ColumbusMarathon.com or contact the race office at (614) 421-RUNN (7866).

The Nationwide Better Health Columbus Marathon, according to Running USA, was one of the 25 largest marathons in the United States in 2007. Approximately 15 percent of finishers qualified for the Boston Marathon. The 2007 event featured a sold out field of 10,000 runners, walkers and wheelchair athletes; 1,500 volunteers and tens of thousands of spectators. For more information or to register, visit: http://www.ColumbusMarathon.com