Thirty-six men and women will complete 393 miles over the race's history.

A group of 36 men and women are prepared to complete 30 editions of the Philadelphia Distance Run on Sunday, September 16, 2007. In addition to running a total of 393 miles over the race's history, the honored participants of this year's race bring three decades of unique stories and memories to the start line.

Havertown resident David Gobel (58) ran the 2001 Philadelphia Distance Run five days after his best friend and running partner was killed in the World Trade Center on September 11.

"Bill was registered to run the race with me that day," said Gobel. "I remember thinking during the race 'this is where Bill wanted to be today.' It made me appreciate being alive and being able to run."

Gobel also recalls the strong patriotism of the other runners in red, white and blue T-shirts, carrying U.S. flags and singing the national anthem at the top of their lungs.

Stan Cooper from Cherry Hill, NJ recalls his most memorable moment, years ago, as after-hours bars were still in business.

"The people would stumble out of the clubs half drunk and just stare at all of these strange people in their shorts and singlets," said Cooper. "The looks on their faces were priceless."

Every year, Cooper (58) is known for wearing his red 1983 Philadelphia Distance Run T-shirt on race day.

"It has several holes in it, and is very light weight and breathable since it's so worn out," Cooper said. "You can see right through the material."

A T-shirt connoisseur, Fred Fletcher from Devon, PA, who turns 60 two days after this year's race, has managed to save all his race shirts from the Philadelphia Distance Run's past 29 years.

"This is no small feat when one is married to a compulsive cleaner who hates old stuff," said Fletcher. "So far, she has not thrown me out either."

A running veteran from Glenside, PA, Al Worthington (55) asks himself somewhere between miles 10 and 11 why he continues to run the Philadelphia Distance Run year after year. His answer is, quite simply, he has found inspiration in the sport.

"Running has taught me the best things in life aren't things," said Worthington. "One of the very best things in life, for me, is being able to run the race and cross the Philadelphia Distance Run finish line every year. Frankly, I can't fathom not running the Philadelphia Distance Run, or perhaps, and more honestly, I don't want to."

As one of four women in the 30-year group, Lorraine Cephus (77) from Cherry Hill, has endured the pains many distance runners experience, including heel spurs, leg aches, and in some cases, heart aches. Despite the periodic discomforts that come with her dedication to the sport, it is important to Cephus to keep moving. Cephus enjoys water aerobics, Tai Chi, and spin classes when she is not out pounding the pavement.

"My favorite memory was running in the rain," Cephus said of the 2004 Philadelphia Distance Run. "It was an experience to remember. Meeting new friends and networking for new training partners."

About the Philadelphia Distance Run
Started in 1978, the Philadelphia Distance Run is one of America's most scenic and historic half marathons, playing host to many of the world's greatest distance runners. In 2005, organizers began increasing the music and entertainment along the course, adding to its scenery as participants tour many of Philadelphia(1)s famous sites. The race is open to runners and walkers, and features the Philadelphia Children's Run for ages 3 thru 12.

The start and finish line village is located at Eakins Oval in front of the Museum of Art, where Rocky Balboa triumphantly scaled the museum steps, and where participants can cool down with refreshments and live music.

For more information and to register for the Philadelphia Distance Run, visit www.RunPhilly.com.