People Burning Fat Productions has announced its latest relay run, the American Odyssey Relay Run Adventure, which will occur in the Washington, D.C. area. The approximately 200- mile course will traverse Civil War battlefields and other historic locations. The event kicks off in Gettysburg, PA. before weaving through Maryland and finishing near the Mall in Washington, D.C.

"Like our other relays, the American Odyssey will be a first- class destination event that attracts visitors from around the country and the world," said Eric Lerude, president of People Burning Fat Productions. "This is our most ambitious effort to date, with an extraordinarily scenic course that showcases many attractions and historical points of interest."

Bethesda-based Xtend Fitness is producing the American Odyssey in partnership with People Burning Fat Productions. Xtend President Bob Fleshner is serving as the event director. He has almost 30 years experience running and has been involved in planning numerous events in the Washington D.C. running community.

"We're extremely excited to host this event, which is the first of its kind in the region. These types of races draw thousands of runners in other parts of the country, and we have all of the opportunity to rival similar world-class relay runs. I can't wait to share our great running resources with other runners," said Fleshner.

The American Odyssey course will be divided into 36 legs. Teams of 12 run three legs each. It will take about 24 hours to complete the relay. Relay organizers are currently in the process of obtaining approvals and permits for the course. The event is expected to occur in the spring 2009.

Event organizers are currently seeking approvals for the relay. Bob Fleshner, the event director, can be reached at (301) 706- 2266.

People Burning Fat Productions has founded and produced two additional relay runs: the Reno-Tahoe Odyssey, which is prepping for its fourth year and will occur on June 6-7, 2008, and the recently held inaugural Arizona Odyssey.