Photos are courtesy of Kevin Allen Photography.

Ten original, artistic mile markers for the upcoming Marine Corps Marathon were unveiled during a press conference in Crystal City, Virginia. The mile markers, which include mile 1 and mile 26, represent each of the ten miles of the annual MCM that are run in Arlington County, Virginia. Designed by local artist Kevin Irvin, the colorful nine-foot tall, graffiti-style mile markers will displayed on the MCM course on Sunday, October 26, 2008.

In photo, longtime MCM Race Director, Rick Nealis speaks.

Representatives from the Marine Corps Marathon, the Crystal City and Rosslyn Business Improvement Districts, and Arlington County, including Chairman of the Arlington County Board, J. Walter Tejada, were on hand for the reveal

"I am excited to proclaim October as 'Marine Corps Marathon' month in Arlington County," said Tejada during his remarks. "Arlington continues to be the proud home of the annual event."

The mile markers are part of larger partnership between the Marine Corps Marathon and Arlington County. On race day, spectators and runners will be able to enjoy exciting activities in the Arlington neighborhoods of Crystal City and Rosslyn. Crystal City hosts Crystal Run, a family-friendly fall festival from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., which lines 23rd Street and includes live bands, food tastings, activities for kids of all ages, and a spectacular spot for spectators to view runners at miles 22 and 23 of the MCM course.

After crossing the finish line, runners will proceed to the Finish Festival, held on Wilson Boulevard and Lynn Street in Rosslyn, to retrieve their commemorative finisher coins, provided by USAA, as well as to enjoy live music, food, giveaways and more!

Later, Crystal City hosts the Post Race Celebration and Concert, featuring the BoDeans at 3:00 p.m.

Above the smile is evident as the mile marker goes "fourth."

Below the final mile is unveiled.

For more details as well as transportation information, visit www.marinemarathon.com and click on weekend events.