When registration for the October 31, 2004 Marine Corps Marathon began on April 1 at www.marinemarathon.com, Web site visitors found a new, improved and more streamlined MCM web page, designed specifically with MCM runners and spectators in mind.

New features on the site include a pop up menu bar on the splash page with subcategories for easy access to MCM links. A new "Volunteer" page offers resources and registration information for groups that would like to assist the MCM in various volunteer opportunities. An in-depth "Travel" page provides participants with everything they need to plan their visit to the MCM, including hotel listings, group travel options, and entertainment activities for those who plan to sightsee while in town.

The new site also launched the MCM Healthy Kid's Corner, focused on providing children with information they need to lead a fun, healthy, and fit lifestyle. It features a sports vocabulary list, healthy snack ideas, kid-friendly recipes and stories from area youngsters about their exercise experiences and stories from the Healthy Kids Fun Run. Parents, principals, and youth group leaders can visit The Kid's Corner for information on how to register for the 2004 Healthy Kids Fun Run, tips on training for the one-mile run, and information on how to get their schools involved.

Come race day, family, friends and MCM fans will be able to view live race results and runner standings as participants make their way through the course. Visitors will be able to register to receive time split information for their selected runner anywhere on the course.

Additionally, the site's redesigned "News" page, offers easy access to press releases and race information for the media, and will include a complete version of the race media guide as the race approaches. This page holds links to monthly editions of "The Extra Mile" newsletter published by the MCM.

"The Marine Corps Marathon is dedicated to providing the information our participants and supporters need in a convenient setting to ensure their experience with the MCM is a positive one come race day," said Rick Nealis, Race Director.

The Marine Corps Marathon continues a combined tradition of dedication, sportsmanship, and patriotism. Since its inception, more than 294,000 civilian and military runners from all walks of life have participated, deservingly earning the event its nickname "The People's Marathon." Beginning at the Iwo Jima Monument in Arlington, Virginia, the MCM course is beautifully scenic, guiding runners around the Pentagon, past the Capitol Building, down the National Mall and by the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials. Runner's World magazine ranks the Marine Corps Marathon among the 10 Best Beginner Marathons.

For media information, contact Christine Bannister Moore at the Marine Corps Marathon Public Relations office at (703) 432- 1164, or via e-mail.