Tacoma to host first annual City Marathon

With its breath taking views of Mount Rainier, Commencement Bay, Point Defiance Park, and the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, it is a surprise to many runners that Tacoma does not host a marathon.  While Olympia has its Capital City and Seattle hosts the Seattle Marathon, Tacoma has been without a marathon for many years.  However, as of May 13, 2007, Tacoma’s non-marathon status will change. 

Co-Directed by Fleet Feet Sports of Bonney Lake and Marathon Maniacs, the first annual Tacoma City Marathon will debut on Sunday, May 13, 2007.  Festivities begin on Friday, May 11, with the kick off of a two-day running and marathon expo.  The expo, held at the new, world-class Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center in downtown Tacoma, will feature numerous sports vendors and organizations as well as guest speakers and running-related clinics.

The marathon course itself will highlight much of Tacoma’s natural beauty.  Beginning in historic downtown Tacoma, the scenic and rolling course will take marathoners along the shores of Commencement Bay via Ruston Way and throughout the beautiful Tacoma area.  With views of the Tacoma Narrows’ Bridge as well as scenic Point Defiance, the Tacoma City Marathon route certainly will provide its participants a glimpse of Tacoma’s loveliest sights.

Along with the full marathon, both a half marathon run and 10k run/walk will also be offered for athletes who prefer a shorter race distance.   

For course maps and more information, visit www.tacomacitymarathon.com or contact Fleet Feet Sports at 253-862-8890.