Virginia Beach Mayor Meyera E. Oberndorf and Elite Racing, Inc., event producer of the Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon, have announced a special "Mayor's Program" that will allow U.S. Armed Forces active duty personnel a discounted registration fee for participation in the sold-out 4th Annual Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon. The event will take place September 5, 2004, in Virginia Beach, VA.

In addition to a $5 discount on registration, 300 spaces have been reserved for the men and women of the Armed Forces who currently may be overseas and unable to register for the popular race. Registration for the event closed May 6th this year.

"The City of Virginia Beach would like to thank the thousands of troops that risk their lives for this country," said Mayor Oberndorf. "Allowing them to be involved with this wonderful event is one way to do that."

The event features 20 live bands and 16 local high school cheerleading squads stationed at each mile of the 13.1-mile course to entertain and motivate runners and walkers. All participants are treated to an evening headliner concert on the beach.

"We want to show our appreciation to all the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces and give them a very sincere and heartfelt thank you," said Tim Murphy, president of Elite Racing. "We hope they will take advantage of the offer and enjoy a fun filled Labor Day weekend in Virginia Beach."

The race offers a fast and flat seaside course, stretching through one of America's most scenic beach resort communities. Runners and walkers will start the race at the Pavilion Convention Center and finish with a spectacular post-race beach party. The race compliments other Labor Day Weekend festivities in Virginia Beach including the Verizon Wireless American Music Festival, presented by JAMBRA.

For more information on this special program, military personnel should call 1-800-311-1255. The first 300 entries post-marked by July 31st will be accepted.