Registered Runners Unable to Participate in 2003
Race Have New Alternative to Deferment
The Marine Corps Marathon has announced a new transfer policy for registered runners unable to participate in the sold-out October 26 race, allowing runners to transfer their bib number to another runner seeking entry. The new transfer policy provides an alternative to the long-standing deferment program, which offers registered runners guaranteed entry into the 2004 Marine Corps Marathon in place of their 2003 participation.

"A lot can happen to a runner during the many months of training for a marathon like injuries or change in commitments," said Rick Nealis, race director. "The new transfer policy combined with the deferment program gives the Marine Corps Marathon's registered runners several options should they not be able to participate in the race. The goal is to give as many people as possible the opportunity to run in 'The People's Marathon.'"

To transfer a bib number, registered runners must complete and mail in the MCM transfer form available at www.marinemarathon.com. The form requires the registered runner's information and the information of the person receiving the transferred bib number. The MCM will send a transfer application to the transferee, which must be returned by September 4, 2003 with the $20 transfer fee.

The deferment procedure for registered runners defers a 2003 guaranteed entry to the 2004 race. Deferring does not transfer a 2003 entry fee to 2004. Runners who elect to defer must pay the 2004 entry fee but will receive a training shirt for the 29th Marine Corps Marathon to be held on October 31, 2004. This policy is not available to those runners who deferred a 2002 entry into this year's race. The deferment request form is located at www.marinemarathon.com. Deadline for deferrals is October 15, 2003.

The Marine Corps Marathon, also known as "The People's Marathon," is the sixth largest US Marathon and the tenth largest in the world. The 28th Marine Corps Marathon will be held on Sunday, October 26, 2003 in Arlington, Virginia. The Marine Corps Marathon will also hold the MCM 5K on Sunday, October 26, 2003 and the Healthy Kids Fun Run on Saturday, October 25, 2003.

For more Marine Corps Marathon information or its surrounding events, please contact Kristen Teubner in the Marine Corps Marathon Public Relations office at (703) 784-2225 ext. 279. For additional information, please contact the Marine Corps Marathon at 1-800-RUN-USMC, or visit www.marinemarathon.com.