The event joins the SunTrust Richmond Marathon and NTELOS 8K on November 15; as many as 5,000 expected to run inaugural 13.1-mile race.

McDonald's has signed on as the title sponsor of the new McDonald's Half Marathon, the Sports Backers have announced. The McDonald's Half Marathon joins the NTELOS 8K as a companion race of the 31-year-old SunTrust Richmond Marathon. All three events will take place on Saturday, November 15.

"We're excited to have one of the world's most recognizable brands as part of our event," said Jeff Fitch, the Sports Backers director of sponsorship and development. "McDonald's is always on the lookout for first-class events with which to be associated and we're thrilled that they recognize the new half marathon as a prestigious property."

McDonald's is not alone. The stellar reputation of the Sports Backers and the 31-year-old SunTrust Richmond Marathon has been spreading through the running community far beyond the Richmond region. Participants from 34 states and the District of Columbia are among the more than 2,500 that have already registered for the McDonald's Half Marathon. A first year field of as many as 5,000 participants is expected in the 13.1-mile race by November 15 with as many as 15,000 total registered in the marathon, half marathon, and 8K.

Events like the Half Marathon support McDonald's overall Balanced, Active Lifestyles program which encourage consumers to pursue a varied diet, make healthy food choices, and exercise regularly.

"We are excited and honored to be part of Richmond's newest sporting experience and we look forward to the growth of the McDonald's Half-Marathon in years to come," says William Washington, Richmond McDonald's Owner/Operator. "Our partnership with Sports Backers for this inaugural run is another terrific opportunity to showcase McDonald's dedication to promoting active and healthy lifestyles within the Richmond community." The McDonald's Half Marathon will follow much of the second half of the SunTrust Richmond Marathon course, which Runner's World Magazine describes as "America's Friendliest Marathon" thanks to its runner amenities like wet wash cloths and numerous bands and spirit groups. The start will be at 7:30 a.m. at 7th and Broad Streets in downtown Richmond, the same start line as Saturday's other events.

The addition of the McDonald's Half Marathon has expanded the weekend's schedule, shifting the Richmond Times-Dispatch Kids Run to start at 7:00 p.m. Friday evening under the lights and on the track at Sports Backers Stadium. And the Ntelos 8K will now start at 7:00 a.m., while the SunTrust Richmond Marathon will retain its traditional 8:00 a.m. start.

Richmond Marathon Web site