Photos from 2003 Marine Corps Marathon finish (above) and 16 mile mark (below). First place female, Heather Hanscom, and Michael Wardian in photo below.

WJLA ABC 7 and Newschannel 8, proud sponsors of the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM), are launching the first-ever Marine Corps Marathon television campaign. The on-air promotion, set to begin at the end of August and continue through marathon day, Sunday, October, 31, 2004, features ABC7 anchor man Leon Harris and Newschannel 8 weatherman Kyle Osborne with members of the US Marine Corps and Miles, the MCM's bulldog mascot.

"We are pleased and proud to play a role in supporting 'The People's Marathon'," said Stan Melton, Jr., Director of Creative Services for ABC 7 and NewsChannel 8. "This event is such an integral part of our Washington communities, and we are grateful to have an opportunity to give back for everything this community has done for our company."

Registration for the MCM was closed in June, following the fifth consecutive sell out of all 18,000 entries through the event's online lottery registration. The campaign will focus on other elements of 'Marathon Weekend.' Taped at the US Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, VA, the site of the marathon's finish, the four-spot campaign will highlight the MCM8K, which takes off immediately following the marathon start; the Healthy Kids Fun Run, held on Saturday, October 30, 2004 at 10 a.m.; volunteer recruiting; and, spectator inspiration.

Information and registration for the MCM8K and the MCM Healthy Kids Fun Run are available at www.marinemarathon.com .

The Marine Corps Marathon continues a combined tradition of dedication, sportsmanship and patriotism. Since its inception, over 293,000 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. The Marine Corps Marathon also hosts The Washington Post presents: The Healthy Kids Fun Run on Saturday, October 30 and the Marine Corps Marathon 8K on Sunday, October 31, immediately following the start of the Marathon.