Runners are urged to show their patriotism and pride by registering on May 17 at noon EDT.

Help the Marine Corps Marathon set the record straight: Runners cannot wait to join the United States Marines on Sunday, October 29 at the Arlington, VA start line! Show patriotic pride by being among the first to log on to www.marinemarathon.com on Wednesday, May 17 at noon EDT to register! The revamped MCM Web site is ready for the challenge of registering 30,000+ runners in less than the prevailing record of 62 hours and 19 minutes set in 2005.

"In 2005, eager would-be marathoners set a personal best for the MCM with a 62 hour and 19 minute close out," said Rick Nealis, MCM Race Director. "I'd like to challenge runners to show their patriotism by helping us close out even faster in 2006!"

The $88 entry fee includes a goodie bag, bib, coveted mock neck shirt, and for the first time, a souvenir single-use ChampionChip. The chip design, featuring the MCM logo on a camouflage background, is for the runner to keep as a lasting memory of his or her accomplishment.

The simple online registration process takes just minutes and includes accepting a waiver, completing the registration form, clicking through a payment and receiving a confirmation e-mail. Confirmation e-mails will include a runner's registration number, imperative to access e-confirmation cards online beginning in August. E-confirmation cards are required at event check-in. A course tour and training video, technical training apparel, and Pasta Mess Tent tickets will be available for sale during the registration process. Also available for purchase is the Commemorative Personalized ChampionChip. Different from the single-use chip provided with registration, this yellow chip is reusable and available for a $35 fee (plus $3 shipping and handling). Runners may use this chip at races worldwide and, of course, at future MCMs.

Registration Rally: Join the MCM for a mid-day break on May 16, the day prior to the opening of online registration, and be one of the first to get an entry into the MCM. 1,000 early entries will be available at the MCM Registration Rally from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm at Pentagon Row in Crystal City, VA. Enjoy music from the Marine Corps Base Quantico Band, health and fitness displays, food samples, information, demonstrations, great products from Pentagon Row merchants, and more!

Voted "Best Marathon for Families" by HerSports magazine, the Marine Corps Marathon continues a combined tradition of dedication, sportsmanship, and patriotism. Since its inception, more than 300,000 civilian and military runners from all walks of life have participated, deservingly earning the event its nickname "The People's Marathon." The 31st Marine Corps Marathon will be held on October 29, 2006. Rolling Registration opens on May 17th, 2006 at noon EDT. Visit www.marinemarathon.com for more information.