Those in need of inspiration to sign up now for the Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon in Virginia Beach scheduled for September 2, 2007 may find it through one of six official charities. Charity training programs are available now for runners and walkers of all abilities.

According to a recent study conducted by USA Track & Field, road runners and walkers raised $656 million for charitable causes in 2005. The Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon is proud to partner with six official charities, which are expected to raise more than $1.3 million at this year's race. The 2007 official charity training programs include the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team in Training, The Children's Tumor Foundation's NF (Neurofibromatosis) Marathon Team, TEAM Hoyt, Children's Hopechest's Run For One, Team Hampton Roads Community Care, and Team Semper Fi (Injured Marine Sempi Fi Fund).

Approximately five percent of this year's participating field in Virginia Beach will consist of runners and walkers from various charity organizations. In addition to supporting a worthy cause, charity programs offer professional coaching, event fees, transportation, and fundraising tips to aid participants in reaching their goals. In exchange for the training assistance, racers are asked to raise a predetermined amount of money to support the charitable organization. Whether participants are interested in achieving peak performance, testing their personal limits, or supporting a worthy cause, training plans are designed to prepare all level of athletes to complete the half-marathon.

Combining charitable endeavors with a rock 'n' roll atmosphere, racers will find a fun and appealing course surrounded by energetic fans. The Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon offers a fast and flat seaside course. In addition to 20 live bands staged approximately every mile along the 13.1-mile course, 16 local high school cheerleading squads line the route. The event concludes with an evening concert featuring a premier rock 'n' roll headliner. The half marathon complements other holiday weekend festivities in Virginia Beach including the Verizon Wireless American Music Festival.

For additional information on the race or to join a charity team listed above, see www.RnRhalftraining.com or call (800)- 311-1255.