Medtronic announced it has initiated its recruitment of runners from around the world who benefit from medical technology to participate in the third annual Medtronic Global Heroes program. Up to 25 runners will be selected to receive a paid entry for themselves and a guest to the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon or the Medtronic TC 10 Mile.

Each Global Hero also will receive a travel package that covers airfare, lodging and meal expenses. The 27th Annual Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon weekend will take place October 3-5, 2008. The deadline for applications is April 2, 2008.

In addition to providing race entries and travel expenses, the Medtronic Foundation will donate $1,000 to a select non-profit patient organization that educates and supports people who live with the Global Hero's medical condition.

To qualify as a Global Hero, runners must currently be using a medical device therapy to treat the following disease categories: heart disease, diabetes, chronic pain, spinal disorders, or neurological, gastroenterology and urological disorders. Eligible medical devices include any pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), any spinal device, any neurological device, any insulin pump, or any heart valve. All runners with eligible medical devices are welcome to apply with no restriction on manufacturer.

To apply or nominate someone to be a 2008 Medtronic Global Hero, visit medtronic.com/globalheroes or e- mail. The deadline for accepting all applications is April 2, 2008. Runners will be chosen by a committee of Twin Cities Marathon, Inc. Certain conditions may apply and applicants must certify that they have discussed race participation with their physician. Runners accompanying a Global Hero as a guest are responsible for their own travel expenses to the Twin Cities. Medtronic Global Heroes was established in 2006 to recognize runners living with a chronic health condition whose lives have been improved by medical technology.

"In 2007, twenty-two Global Heroes from around the world joined us for race weekend," said Dr. Steve Oesterle, senior vice president of medicine and technology at Medtronic, and marathon veteran. "The program recognizes the personal accomplishments of these runners, while inspiring others to learn more about living with and managing these chronic health conditions."

About Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon
Known as the Most Beautiful Urban Marathon in America the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon is a three-day weekend celebration of fitness that includes the Medtronic TC Family Events and TC 5K, the Medtronic TC 10 Mile, and the marathon. Twin Cities Marathon, Inc. is the non-profit organization that directs race weekend as a community service for the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.

Visit Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon for more information.