The Greater Washington Sports Alliance announced today that online registration for the 2009 SunTrust National Marathon and Half Marathon will begin at 12:01 am (EST), July 4, 2008. The "Celebrate Freedom" sale is a one week registration period with marathon prices set for $60 and $50 for the half marathon. Runners can register at www.nationalmarathon.com. The sale ends at 11:59 pm (EST) on July 11, 2008.

"I look at our holiday sale as a reward for those willing to commit to our event early," said Keith Dowling, Race Director of the SunTrust National Marathon. "With the popularity of our event growing each year, we've seen a loyal following take advantage of the discount while securing a spot on our start line. It's the best of both worlds."

Already established as the second fastest annually held marathon in the country behind the venerable Boston Marathon, the SunTrust National Marathon gets an extra boost as 2009 marks the first time in event's history that the route does not change from the previous year. The consistency is another step toward creating a tradition worthy of a city already rich in history and culture.

"The Greater Washington Sports Alliance is proud to continue the tradition of connecting a meaningful sporting event to District residents," said Sports Alliance President Robert Sweeney. "This race has rapidly become a powerful annual tradition showcasing DC civic pride and has highlighted our mission of supporting youth organizations."

To further connect into the District's core, the Junior Monumental Milers Program (JuMMP) has made great strides since last year's pilot program. JuMMP is run-walk program where more than 13,000 youths, ages 8 to 12, will achieve 26.2 miles over a 23 week period. The 2009 JuMMP initiative has expanded to include programming within DC Public Schools, YMCA, and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington. The program will begin September 17 and will end on February 27, with a culmination ceremony taking place at the SunTrust National Marathon on March 21, 2009.

Fast Facts:

* 4th Annual SunTrust National Marathon and Half Marathon
* Saturday, March 21, 2009 at 7:00 a.m.
* District inclusive marathon and half marathon course 
* Mayor Adrian Fenty - 
  Official 2008 marathon finisher and honorary race starter
* More than 8,000 runners expected in only the 
  fourth year of the race
* More than $230,000 dollars raised for charity in 2008
* Boston Marathon qualifier

For more information, or to register for the SunTrust National Marathon, go to: www.nationalmarathon.com.