The Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) is heading to the Big Apple to kick off a series of special guaranteed registration events. Held across the country, these events will offer runners the chance to receive a guaranteed entry into the 30th MCM on October 30, 2005.

MCM hopefuls should visit the Brooks Running booth at the New York City Marathon Expo on Friday, November 5th from 10 am to 2 pm and 5 pm to 8 pm, and Saturday, November 6th from noon until 5 pm The Expo will be held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center, Hall 3E, 11th Avenue at 35th Street, Manhattan. Interested runners will be provided a guaranteed entry application. Check www.marinemarathon.com for a listing of other special registration events.

The 30th MCM will fill its field of runners through new rolling registration with instant confirmation at www.marinemarathon.com beginning on Wednesday, April 6, 2005, midnight eastern standard time. This format replaces the lottery system that has been used for the last five years.

Additionally, for the first time ever, the MCM will welcome 30,000 runners to its start line in 2005.

The Marine Corps Marathon, celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2005, continues a combined tradition of dedication, sportsmanship and patriotism. 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.