2015 media guide - Pittsburgh Marathon
Transcription
2015 media guide - Pittsburgh Marathon
DICK’S SPORTING GOODS PITTSBURGH MARATHON 2015 MEDIA GUIDE MAY 1-3, 2015 1 WELCOME WELCOME to coach a team competing in the FedEx Ground Pittsburgh Marathon Relay. Competitors will battle for possession of the District Duel and Media Match trophy. You can get in on the action by cheering on your favorite team. Keep a look out on race day for team members in special shirts competing in the District Duel and Media Match. Brave the Bridge – Test your speed on race day and see if you can be the fastest runner to cross the West End Bridge, between mile 6 and 7. Prizes will be awarded to the top age group winners for both men and women. The race day experience features more than just pavement and Gatorade. Enjoy the sounds of more than 60 bands in the largest Pittsburgh music festival that spans 26.2 miles. Each neighborhood has a party and cheer groups to keep you motivated all the way to the finish line. After this incredible adventure, the Finish Line Festival awaits with more music, food, vendors, the Geico PR Bell and merchandise, including the race poster designed by local artist Baron Batch. There’s no better way to commemorate your experience! Whether achieving personal fitness goals, raising money for a great cause through the Run for a Reason charity program or setting a new personal best, every runner wins at the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. Dear runner, Are … YOU … Ready? Our race is more than an event - it’s an experience. Join us for the count down to the 2015 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon weekend of events! #GameOnPGH This winter was tough for training, but that didn’t stop our Runners of STEEL. Instead of curling up indoors, Runners of STEEL challenged the elements and shared their training with us the entire way with the use of #RunnerOfSteel on social media. You can check out all the photos in the Hashtag Gallery on our Facebook page. Everyone can use a little motivation, so this year’s Game on Pittsburgh campaign offered some brand new fun to rev-up the energy. #WinningWednesday became a chance to win tremendous prizes and gift cards every week on social media. The Steel City Road Runners added some games to their training runs, such as old-fashioned memory tests and scavenger hunts. From registration opening until race day, we are giving out $25,000 worth of prizes. The gaming doesn’t stop there, it continues through race weekend with various challenges and competitions. Here are just a few: Patrice Matamoros P3R CEO Pittsburgh Three Rivers Marathon, Inc. (P3R) is a nonprofit organization that is passionate about promoting the love of running and enhancing community access to health & fitness education and activities. Proud organizers of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon weekend of events, EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler, GNC Live Well Liberty Mile, Kids of STEEL Program, American Development Program, Run for a Reason charity program and Steel City Road Runners. STEEL Challenge – More than 550 runners are participating in the first-ever STEEL Challenge as they warm up with the UPMC Health Plan/UPMC Sports Medicine Pittsburgh 5K Run on Saturday before racing on Sunday. Runners receive bragging rights and a special bonus medal in addition to their well-deserved Saturday and Sunday race medals. District Duel & Media Match – Promoting fitness and healthy competition, the District Duel and Media Match is an exciting opportunity for elected city officials and media personalities 2 3 MEDIA INFO AND FACTS IMPORTANT MEDIA INFORMATION RACE WEEK MEDIA HEADQUARTERS Race Week Media Headquarters Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown Hotel Forbes Room 600 Commonwealth Place, Pittsburgh EMAIL: [email protected] TWITTER: @PGHMarathon INSTAGRAM: PGHMarathon HASHTAG: #PGHMarathon, #GameOnPGH FACEBOOK: DSGPM SNAPCHAT: PGHMarathon MEDIA CONTACTS KELSEY JACKSON DAVID MONICO Public Relations Manager Public Relations DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon EventPro 417.425.9400805.452.3580 [email protected]@bringbackthemile.com NIKKI GRAYBURNRYAN LAMPPA Start Line Media Captain Public Relations DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon EventPRO 412.526.6152805.966.7747 [email protected]@bringbackthemile.com EMILY BAUM Finish Line Media Captain DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon 724.859.1447 RACE WEEKEND MEDIA CENTERS 4 FRIDAY, MAY 1 Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown Hotel Forbes Room 600 Commonwealth Place, Pittsburgh 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. SATURDAY, MAY 2 Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown Hotel Forbes Room 600 Commonwealth Place, Pittsburgh 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. 5 MEDIA INFO AND FACTS MEDIA INFO AND FACTS SUNDAY, MAY 3 Start Line: Liberty Avenue near 10th Street Finish Line: Point Park University Lawrence Hall, 2nd Floor 201 Wood Street, Pittsburgh Headquarters: 5:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown Hotel Forbes Room 600 Commonwealth Place, Pittsburgh MEDIA INFORMATION MEDIA CREDENTIALS Media credentials are available by emailing your request to [email protected]. You may pick up your credentials in person at the Race Weekend Kick-off Press Conference on Friday, May 1 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center or Race Week Media Headquarters located at the Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown Hotel in the Forbes Room. NEWS, ANNOUNCEMENTS AND PRESS RELEASES All DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon press material will be available online. Live race updates will be available in the Finish Line Media area as course reports and split times become available during the race. Announcements will also be made via social media and at PittsburghMarathon.com/News. ON-SITE INTERNET A media room with Internet access will be available in the Forbes Room of the Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown Hotel for members of the working press on Friday, May 1 through Sunday, May 3. On race day, the Start Line Media Area is located on Liberty Avenue between Smithfield Street and 10th Street and at the Finish Line Media Area, located at Point Park University in Lawrence Hall on the 2nd floor. INTERVIEWS Interviews may be arranged with elite athletes and race staff by contacting David Monico of the Media Relations team at 805.452.3580 or [email protected]. Interviews will be available following the press conference on Friday, via appointment on Saturday and immediately after the race in the Finish Line Media Area on Sunday. 6 7 POST-RACE PHOTOS, NEWS AND DOWNLOADABLE RESULTS Downloadable results, news and photos from 2015 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon will be available following the race at PittsburghMarathon.com. Complete results: If you wish to have complete results in a specific format for print purposes, please make this request prior to race weekend through Kelsey Jackson at 417.425.9400 or [email protected]. • Post-race news release: A release will be sent out following the race. It will be emailed directly to all registered and credentialed members of the media and available online later in the day. • Photos: Visit the media section of our website (PittsburghMarathon.com/News) and follow the links to download race day photographs following the race. 2014 archive photos are available online at pghmarathon.photoshelter.com, pre-race. • B-roll: B-roll will be available upon request following the race. If you need B-roll on race day, please make arrangements in advance. • Photography walk-through: A photography walk-through will be held on Saturday, May 2 at 2:00 p.m. Race Officials will meet photographers at the start line on Liberty Avenue between 10th Street and Smithfield Street and will then walk the group to the finish line, located on the Boulevard of the Allies. 2014 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. GNC Live Well Pittsburgh Health and Fitness Expo David L. Lawrence Convention Center *The Expo will open at 10:00 a.m., one-hour early, for VIP participants only. 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. VIP Event Westin Convention Center Hotel, 3rd floor SATURDAY, MAY 2 8:00 a.m. UPMC Health Plan/UPMC Sports Medicine Pittsburgh 5K Run Intersection of West General Robinson Street and Mazeroski Way 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. GNC Live Well Pittsburgh Health and Fitness Expo David L. Lawrence Convention Center 9:30 a.m. Toyota of Pittsburgh Kids Marathon West General Robinson Street by PNC Park 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Saturday Finish Line Festival Point State Park 11:30 a.m. Toddler Trot Point State Park 12:00 p.m. Purina Pro Plan Pittsburgh Pet Walk Point State Park THURSDAY, APRIL 30 12:30 p.m. Kids of STEEL Pen Pal Visit: Tyler McCandless McClellen Elementary, 360 School Lane, Pittsburgh 7:00 p.m. KDKA Pre-race Show Airing on KDKA 2:00 p.m. Kids of STEEL Pen Pal Visit: Clara Santucci Ross Elementary, 90 Houston Road, Pittsburgh SUNDAY, MAY 3 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. 6:50 a.m. DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Handcycling Division presented by PNC Liberty Avenue near 10th Street #GameOnPGH Blogger Event Wigle Whiskey, 2401 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh FRIDAY, MAY 1 10:00 a.m. Race Weekend Kick-off Press Conference David L. Lawrence Convention Center 8 7:00 a.m. DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon and FedEx Ground Pittsburgh Marathon Relay Liberty Avenue near 10th Street 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Finish Line Festival Point State Park 9 MEDIA INFO AND FACTS GNC LIVE WELL PITTSBURGH HEALTH AND FITNESS EXPO The GNC Live Well Pittsburgh Health and Fitness Expo is one of the many exciting events that will be held on race weekend, May 1-2, 2015; it’s free and open to the public. Registered runners, families running with children in the Toyota of Pittsburgh Kids Marathon, race fans and fitness enthusiasts from throughout the region will attend the Expo, as it will serve as the hub for racers and spectators with packet pick-up on Friday and Saturday. The Expo will focus on all aspects of health and wellness for people of all ages and will be held at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. More than 100 vendors will be on hand, bringing Pittsburgh the latest fitness products, nutritional supplements and workout gear for all weather. Shop for shoes, socks, technical clothing, running accessories, and official DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon merchandise. Get free samples and giveaways, autographs and advice from some of the biggest names in running. Don’t miss a speaker-series featuring athletes, celebrities, and experts presenting on a variety of health and fitness-related topics all weekend long! These 30-minute presentations are free to the general public, but seating is limited so we advise registering for the talks in advance. TOP 10 HITS AT THE 2014 EXPO 1. Get your Gear On—Stop by the DICK’S Sporting Goods store for official 2015 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon apparel. 2. Deck the Walls—Support Kids of STEEL by purchasing the official 2015 Pittsburgh Marathon poster designed by local artist Baron Batch. 3. Get inspired—Visit the Expo Speaker Series booth for great talks from athletes and celebrities on running, health, fitness and more! 4. Rise to the Top—Test your climbing skills at the Venture Outdoors climbing wall. 5. Fuel Up—Get your free protein shake at the GNC Live Well Shake Shop in the lobby. 6. Wind down—Taste samples of your favorite Sierra Nevada brews at Happy Hour on Friday, May 1 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. and Saturday, May 2 from 12:00-3:00 p.m. in the Sierra Nevada booth. 7. Run in Style—Check out the limited-edition Runner of STEEL collection leggings by Dona Jo at the P3R and Dona Jo booths. 8. Commemorate the moment—Get your official Runner of STEEL jewelry at the Scott James Jewelry booth. 9. Train Year-round—Stop by the Steel City Road Runners booth to discover what amazing benefits await you at the region’s largest running club. 10. Plan ahead—Visit the P3R booth to sign up for all of P3R upcoming events (the GNC Live Well Liberty Mile, EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler and 2016 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon) and receive a premium apparel item. 10 11 SPEAKER SERIES LINEUP FRIDAY, MAY 1 LOCATION 11:30 a.m. Nick Fischer, RD, LDN Nutrition tips David L. Lawrence Convention Center 1000 Fort Duquesne Boulevard Pittsburgh, PA 15222 12:30 p.m. Jeffrey Eggleston Course Details *A list of vendors is available at PittsburghMarathon.com/Expo 3:00 p.m. Adam Bean Run the Rann 4:00 p.m. Gary Allen Inspirational/Personal Story HOURS Friday, May 1, 2015 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., *The Expo will open at 10:00 a.m., one-hour early, for VIP participants only. 5:00 p.m. Dr. Vonda Wright, MD UPMC Saturday, May 2, 2015 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. Budd Coates How to run your best PGH Marathon RUNNERS BY STATE SATURDAY, MAY 2 10:30 a.m. Mike Friedman Professional Cyclist 11:30 a.m. Tyler McCandless Elite Athlete 12:30 p.m. Heather & Ben Kampf Elite Athletes 2:00 p.m. Adam Bean Run the Rann 3:00 p.m. Gary Allen Inspirational/Personal Story 4:00 p.m. Budd Coates How to run your best PGH Marathon 5:00 p.m. Sole Survivors Induction Ceremony 12 13 RUNNERS BY COUNTRY mobile app will include immediate results and runner tracking; up-to-date race weekend news and access; event schedules; entertainment locations and schedules; course maps; interactive games; social streams and photo sharing, and much more. Visit the APP STORE and search for “Pittsburgh Marathon” on your smartphone to download this free mobile app today. AFGHANISTAN - 1 ISRAEL - 12 AUSTRALIA - 2 ITALY - 1 BRAZIL - 1 JAPAN - 4 CANADA - 79 KENYA - 12 COLOMBIA - 1 MEXICO - 10 COSTA RICA - 2 MOLDOVA - 1 ERITREA - 2 NETHERLANDS - 1 ETHIOPIA - 10 UKRAINE - 1 GERMANY - 5 UNITED KINGDOM - 3 GUATEMALA - 1 UNITED STATES - 34,399 HONG KONG - 1 VENEZUELA - 1 INDONESIA - 1 TODDLER TROT Recommended for children ages 2 to 4 years of age, the Toddler Trot is the newest addition to the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh weekend of events. The event will be held on Saturday, May 2 at 11:30 a.m. in scenic Point State Park. WHY 26.2? The legend goes that a Greek soldier named Pheidippides was sent from the battlefield at Marathon to Athens with the message that Greece had defeated the Persians. Pheidippides allegedly ran the approximate 26.2 miles without stopping. Upon arrival, he burst into the assembly exclaiming, “Nikomen!” - Greek for “we have won.” QUICK FACTS 2015 BY THE NUMBERS WHAT’S NEW? MEDIA MATCH AND DISTRICT DUEL Promoting fitness and healthy competition, the District Duel and Media Match is an exciting opportunity for elected city officials and media personalities to coach a team competing in the FedEx Ground Pittsburgh Marathon Relay. Competitors will battle for possession of the District Duel and Media Match trophy. Keep an eye out on race day for their team shirts! WEST END BRIDGE CHALLENGE Runners will test their speed on race day and see if they can be the fastest runner to cross the West End Bridge, between miles 6 and 7. Prizes will be awarded to the top age group winners for both men and women. PARTICIPATION • • • • STEEL CHALLENGE More than 550 runners are participating in the first-ever STEEL Challenge as they warm up with the UPMC Health Plan/UPMC Sports Medicine Pittsburgh 5K Run on Saturday before taking on any Sunday race. Runners receive bragging rights and a special bonus medal in addition to their well-deserved Saturday and Sunday race medals. • NEW MOBILE APP FOR INTERACTIVE RACE EXPERIENCE This year’s official mobile app by CrowdTorch offers a unique, interactive experience for race weekend! The app offers the latest in mobile technology and includes useful tools and links to keep runners, spectators, volunteers and local residents informed every step of the way. The • 14 • • • The 2015 event will showcase more than 30,000 runners from 49 states and 20 countries. One of the 20 largest marathons and half marathons in the U.S. The oldest runner is 85 years old. Students from 120 schools and organizations are logging 26.2 miles of running over 18 weeks as part of the Kids of STEEL program. They will run the last mile of their goal in the Toyota of Pittsburgh Kids Marathon, which will have a record of 6,000 participants. 33.5% of those registered for the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon are running their first marathon. 55 world-class athletes will compete for a total prize purse that exceeds $132,000 with $8,000 going to the first male and female. Top U.S. long distance runners will compete for an American prize purse of $40,500. 17 official #GameOnPGH bloggers are documenting their training experience leading up to race day. The race has sold out each year since the race came back in 2009. The 2009 race had 10,000 participants. 15 • • 150,000+ spectators line the start, course and finish. 20 companies are participating in the 2015 Pittsburgh Corporate Wellness Challenge, an opportunity for corporations and companies of all sizes to promote workplace wellness and build teamwork across departments. LOGISTICS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 20,000 gallons of water 30,000 mylar blankets 700 Port-O-Johns 154,000 safety pins 22,000 Eat’n Park Cookies 32,000 bananas 18,000 feet of fencing 480,000 cups 1,110 tables 4,154 volunteers, including 500 clinicians all volunteering their time and skills, including physicians, nurses, paramedics, podiatrists, certified athletic trainers, physical therapists, and massage therapists 30 box trucks 1500 trash/recycling bags 500 cones 15,000 Pure Protein Bars 1200 gallons of Gatorade concentrate 50 generators for bands 16,000 Carb Boom! Energy Gels 1,000 signs and banners 15 medical aid stations and 20 fluid stations along the course Coordination with 13 neighborhoods along the course 100+ bands and cheer groups will line the 26.2 mile course 50,000 GNC Live Well Pittsburgh Health & Fitness Expo visitors 130 vendors at the GNC Live Well Pittsburgh Health & Fitness Expo 60,000 bottles of Culligan water 22,000 Panera Bread bagels 30 school buses 300 radios 400+ private security personnel COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT • • • • • • $6 million raised for charity since 2009 100+ official and contributing charities 13 official neighborhoods 7 years since the event’s revival 100+ bands and cheerathoners will line the course on race day Consistently given a 5-star rating by race participants on MarathonGuide.com RANKINGS • • • Rated the 8th best marathon in the world by The Active Times in 2014 One of the 20 largest marathons and half marathons in the U.S. by Running USA Consistently given a 5-star rating by race participants on MarathonGuide.com 16 17 EIGHT DAYS, THREE MARATHON WINS In March, Bryan Morseman won three marathons in the span of eight days. This unusual winning streak comes in an effort to help cover the medical costs for his 9-month old son diagnosed with spina bifida. Morseman has won 23 of 42 marathons he’s participated in, and he doesn’t plan to stop running anytime soon. With a marathon personal record of 2:19:57, Morseman’s ultimate goal is to qualify for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. PARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA This year, 10 members of the Paralyzed Veterans of America will complete the 26.2 mile course as part of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Handcycle Division presented by PNC. STEVE SISCO SUITS UP Watch Steven Sisco attempt to break a Guinness World Record for the fastest half marathon while wearing football pads. You can spot him wearing a Steelers-inspired football uniform during the entire duration of the UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon. WHO TO WATCH CLARA SANTUCCI AIMS TO TAKE DOWN RECORD Defending DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon women’s champion is aiming to not only repeat her win, but also take down the event record of 2 hours, 29 minutes, 50 seconds, set by Margaret Groos in 1988. SOPHY JEPCHIRCHIR READY FOR A REPEAT Kenyan Sophy Jepchirchir returns to defend her UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon title after setting the race record last year, clocking an impressive 1:11:37. ONCE, TWICE, THREE TIMES A CHAMPION? The 2012-13 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon champion James Kirwa returns to Pittsburgh eyeing a third title and the accompanying $8000 purse after dropping out of the 2014 event. FISHING FOR CASH, JOHN HOLLENBERGER AS “WILEY THE FISH” Urban Impact charity runner John Hollenberger is completing crazy tasks in the weeks leading up to the race as he meets fundraising goals including food challenges, a plunge into an ice bath and a leg waxing/head shaving fundraiser! Hollenberger partnered with Rivertowne North Shore and will be running as “Wiley the Fish” on race day as he competes in the UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon. PITTSBURGH WELCOMES RUNNERS FROM SISTER CITY IN ISRAEL This year, 10 runners from Pittsburgh’s Israeli Partnership region, Karmiel and Misgav, will be participating in the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon as part of Partnership2Gether (P2G), a program of the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh. Also accompanying the runners will be the city’s two mayors: Mayors Adi Eldar of Karmiel and Ron Shani of Misgav as well as the Israeli Co-chairs of the Partnership, Lilach Vaxsman Rana and Yossi Morag. FEDEX GROUND PITTSBURGH MARATHON RELAY MEDIA MATCH Keep an eye out for media personalities from KDKA, WPXI, and WESA as they vie for the coveted trophy of the first-ever Media Match. FORECASTING VICTORY Brains, brawn and speed describe Pennsylvania native and American Development Program ambassador Tyler McCandless. Leading the American men this year in the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, McCandless seeks a win in Pittsburgh and to achieve the 2016 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials ‘A’ Standard of 2:15:00. When he’s not running, he’s pursuing a PhD. in Meteorology from Penn State University. 18 19 20 21 MEDIA START LINE MAP SPONSORED MILES MILES Mile 0-1 Mile 1-2 Mile 2-3 Mile 3-4 Mile 4-5 Mile 5-6 Mile 6-7 Mile 7-8 Mile 8-9 Mile 9-10 Mile 10-11 Mile 11-12 Mile 12-13 Mile 12-13 Mile 13-14 Mile 14-15 Mile 15-16 Mile 16-17 Mile 17-18 Mile 18-19 Mile 19-20 Mile 20-21 Mile 21-22 Mile 22-23 Mile 23-24 Mile 24-25 Mile 25-26 Mile 26-26.2 SPONSORS DICK’S Sporting Goods KDKA-TV Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Bayer MaterialScience U-Haul FedEx Ground Massage Envy Rothman Gordon UPMC Sports Medicine Charity Mile by P3R E-ZPass UPMC Sports Medicine DICK’S Sporting Goods UPMC Health Plan (Half ) & 13-13.1 Hello Bistro GNC Live Well Military Mile Presented by PNC Cleveland Brothers Pure Protein Panera Bread Giant Eagle NuGo Nutrition I-Heart Media Toyota of Pittsburgh Sierra Nevada Herr’s DICK’S Sporting Goods DICK’S Sporting Goods 22 23 MEDIA FINISH LINE MAP 2014 WOMEN’S CHAMPION CLARA SANTUCCI RETURNING TO STEEL CITY TO DEFEND DICK’S SPORTING GOODS PITTSBURGH MARATHON CROWN $132,000 prize purse plus American Development Program to award $40,500 in U.S.-only money for Marathon & Half-Marathon PITTSBURGH, PA – The 2014 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon women’s champion Clara Santucci made a surprise appearance at this past Saturday’s 7th edition of the Marathon Kick-off Training Run to announce that she will return to the Steel City in 2015 to defend her title. The 2015 race, set for Sunday, May 3, offers a $132,000 prize purse, including American bonuses totaling $40,500. “I have three goals for 2015: to defend my title, break the course record and make Pittsburgh proud,” said reigning champion Clara Santucci. “I love Pittsburgh and spend a lot of time here as I live in southwest Pennsylvania. When Patrice wrapped the American flag around me after last year’s win, she said, ‘You’re a Pittsburgher now!’” In last year’s race, Santucci beat Ethiopian Yeshimebet Bifa by 2 minutes and 20 seconds to finish in a time of 2 hours, 32 minutes, 25 seconds. Santucci, 27, a Dilliner, PA resident, considers the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon her hometown race. This year she plans to improve her time in preparation for the 2016 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in Los Angeles. 24 25 NEWS Santucci will once again be an ambassador for the Pittsburgh Three Rivers Marathon, Inc. (P3R) American Development Program. As an event ambassador, she will interact and provide inspiration to the Pittsburgh running community. Last year, she was a pen pal for second graders at Aiken Elementary who were participating in the Kids of STEEL program and training for the Toyota of Pittsburgh Kids Marathon. On race week, she visited the school and then ran with the kids during the Kids Marathon. The DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon is the first of a series of P3R events that are part of its American Development Program. The second-year program is committed to supporting promising U.S. athletes to help propel their running careers to international standings and participate in world-renowned athletic events such as major marathons and the Olympics. This past Saturday, a 100-plus runners braved freezing rain and icy conditions and attended the annual kick-off event, which offered distances of 3 and 4 miles. The theme for the 2015 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon is focused on games, and this year’s event will feature more than 30,000 competitors and $25,000 in prizes. Runners will play through seven months of virtual and old-fashioned competition – that started at registration, will continue through training and culminate with one epic weekend of games. Throughout the training season and race weekend, runners are encouraged to use the hashtag #GameOnPGH and #RunnerofSteel. CLARA SANTUCCI EYES EVENT RECORD AT PITTSBURGH MARATHON Sophy Jepchichir returns to UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon after setting event record in 2014; 7th edition on Sunday, May 3 offers a guaranteed $132,000 prize purse, including American bonuses totaling $40,500. PITTSBURGH, PA – Defending women’s champions Clara Santucci and Sophy Jepchirchir will return to Pittsburgh on Sunday, May 3 to defend their titles at the 7th DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon andUPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon, respectively. The weekend of events offers a guaranteed overall prize purse of $132,000, including American Development Program (ADP) bonuses totaling $40,500. “We are thrilled that both Clara and Sophy will return to defend their titles this year,” said Patrice Matamoros, CEO of Pittsburgh Three Rivers Marathon, Inc. (P3R). “In the second year of our American Development Program, we are also proud to showcase a strong field of U.S. women athletes.” Santucci, 28, who won last year’s DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon with a time of 2 hours, 32 minutes, 25 seconds, aims to not only defend her title but also beat the event record of 2:29:50, set by Margaret Groos in 1988. Santucci will face tough competition from Kenyan native and 13-time Wichita State All-American Aliphine Tuliamuk-Bolton, who is making her marathon debut. 26 P3R’s American Development Program, an initiative to increase exposure and racing opportunities for emerging American professional runners, has also attracted top Americans Devon Yanko, with a marathon personal best of 2:38:55, and Emily Gordon, of Team USA Minnesota with a marathon PR of 2:39:58. In the UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon, Kenyan Sophy Jepchirchir also returns to defend her title after setting the race record last year, clocking 1:11:37. In order to win again, she will need to beat EthiopianEtaferahu Temesgen, who recently set a personal best of 1:11:22 at the United Airlines NYC Half Marathon, and American Alvina Begay, who has a PR of 1:12:25. Other top Americans in the field include Heather Lieberg with a personal best of 1:13:10 and local Pittsburgh runners Carly Seymour and Jennifer Bigham. Seymour recently debuted in the half-marathon at the NYC Half Marathon with a time of 1:14:04, while Bigham achieved her 13.1 mile PR of 1:15:59 at this year’s Rock ‘n’ Roll New Orleans Half Marathon. WOMEN’S MARATHON Name, Country, Affiliation, Personal Best Clara Santucci, USA, Saucony, 2:29:54 Aliphine Tuliamuk-Bolton, KEN, Unattached, 1:09:16 (Half-Marathon) Devon Yanko, USA, Bay Birds Racing, 2:38:55 Christina Murphy, USA, Columbus RC, 2:39:15 Emily Potter, USA, U.S. Army, 2:39:55 Emily Gordon, USA, Team USA MN, 2:39:58 Anna Weber, USA, Unattached, 2:50:01 Kelsey Markham, USA, Oiselle, 2:55:00 Emily Giannotti, USA, Unattached, 1:24:00 (Half-Marathon) Jessica Mann, USA, Unattached, 2:58:54 WOMEN’S HALF MARATHON Name, Country, Affiliation, Personal Best Hellen Jemutai, KEN, MarathonGuide.com, 1:10:49 Etaferahu Temesgen, ETH, Unattached, 1:11:22 Sophy Jepchirchir, KEN, MarathonGuide.com, 1:11:37 Askale Merachi, ETH, WSX, 1:12:19 Alvina Begay, USA. Team Run Flagstaff, 1:12:25 Heather Lieberg, USA, Oiselle, 1:13:10 Carly Seymour, USA, Unattached, 1:14:04 Jennifer Bigham, USA, Oiselle, 1:15:59 Sara Zambotti, USA, Unattached, 1:16:58 Heather Utrata, USA, Unattached, 1:18:56 Mindy Sawtelle-Zottola, USA, Unattached, 1:20:16 27 NEWS DEEP MEN’S FIELDS EXPECTED FOR 2015 DICK’S SPORTING GOODS PITTSBURGH MARATHON AND UPMC HEALTH PLAN PITTSBURGH HALF Two-time Marathon champion James Kirwa returns for hat trick; 7th edition on Sunday, May 3 offers a $132,000 prize purse, including U.S. bonuses totaling $40,500 (PITTSBURGH, PA) – Deep fields are expected in the men’s race for both the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon and the UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon on Sunday, May 3. The 7th edition features a guaranteed $132,000 prize purse, including American Development Program (ADP) bonuses totaling $40,500. “Led by past race champions James Kirwa and Julius Kogo, the men in this year’s race bring plenty of speed and experience, and the City of Champions could be treated to some fast performances as well as new event records,” said Patrice Matamoros, CEO of Pittsburgh Three Rivers Marathon, Inc. (P3R). The 2012-13 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon champion James Kirwa, 31 on race day, returns eyeing a third title and the accompanying $8000 purse after dropping out of the 2014 event. He will face tough competition from Eritrean Mulue Andom Berhe (personal best of 2:11:03) and Ethiopians Negash Abebe Duki(2:11:14 PR) and Chala Lemi Demie (2:08:49 PR, fastest in the field). Leading the American men this year, Tyler McCandless, 28, aims for a win in Pittsburgh and to achieve the 2016 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials ‘A’ Standard of 2:15:00. In the UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon, Kenyan Geoffrey Ngetich with a personal best of 1:00:01 and Ethiopian Tesfaye Girma Bekele with a PR of 1:00:35 lead a deep field of athletes competing for the $6500 champion’s prize. Joining the talented pair will be the 2014 New York Road Runner Male Athlete of the YearYonas Mebrahtu and 2012-13 UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon champion Julius Kogo. Top Americans competing this year in the 13.1 mile race include Jordan Chipangama, who has a 1:03:22 personal best, Jeff Weiss, who has a 1:04:40 PR, and Christian Thompson, who was the top U.S. finisher in last year’s UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon, clocking 1:05:55. 28 MEN’S MARATHON Name, Country, Affiliation, Personal Best Chala Lemi Demie, ETH, Unattached, 2:08:49 Mulue Andom Berhe, ERI, Nike, 2:11:03 Negash Abebe Duki, ETH, WSX, 2:11:14 Jonathan Kibet, KEN, Extremus, 2:11:38 Werkuhah Aboye, ETH, WSX, 2:11:47 Tariku Abosete Bokan, ETH, WSX, 2:12:23 James Kirwa, KEN, Unattached, 2:12:54 John Thuo, KEN, Extremus, 2:14:10 Shadrack Kipkogey, KEN, MarathonGuide.com, 2:14:19 Tyler McCandless, USA, Newton, 2:15:26 Christopher Estwanik, BER, Mid Atlantic AC, 2:19:55 Nik Schweikert, USA, Newton, 2:24:12 Tyler Sewald, USA, Boulder Track Club, 2:25:00 Hugh Toland, USA, New Balance, 2:31:16 Ben Kampf, USA, Unattached, 2:34:00 Tyler Chacra, CAN, HOKA ONE ONE, 2:34:00 MEN’S HALF MARATHON Name, Country, Affiliation, Personal Best Geoffrey Ngetich, KEN, Unattached, 1:00:01 Tesfaye Girma Bekele, ETH, WSX, 1:00:35 Yonas Mebrahtu, ERI, Unattached, 1:02:00 Julius Kogo, KEN, MarathonGuide.com, 1:02:25 Ayele Megersa Feisa, ETH, WSX, 1:03:03 Jordan Chipangama, USA, NAZ Elite, 1:03:22 Stephen Pifer, USA, Newton, 1:03:44 Girma Bekele Gebre, ETH, WSX, 1:03:50 Betram Keter, KEN, MarathonGuide.com, 1:04:17 David Sanchez, USA, Skechers Performance, 29:23.30 (10,000m) Christian Thompson, USA, NJ*NY Track Club, 1:04:31 Jeff Weiss, USA, Steel City Track Club, 1:04:40 Birhanu Dare Kemal, ETH, WSX, 1:04:57 Matt Hensley, USA, Boulder Harriers, 1:06:31 Alex Koksal, USA, Unattached, 1:09:24 Josh Carson, USA, Boulder Harriers, 1:09:28 29 NEWS #GAMEONPGH CAMPAIGN INTEGRATES ONGOING VIRTUAL COMPETITION INTO EPIC RACE WEEKEND EXPERIENCE P3R invites race participants and spectators into a series of gaming opportunities online and in person throughout the 2015 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend; first-ever Steel Challenge and West End Bridge Challenge to recognize more champions on race day. (PITTSBURGH, PA) - Bringing a new level of competition to the 7th edition of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon race weekend of events, P3R’s #GameOnPGH campaign has offered participants a chance to play games and win more than $25,000 in prizes. The interactive campaign that officially kicked off when registration opened on Sept. 30 has engaged participants throughout their seven month journey to the starting line and will culminate with one epic weekend of gaming. One of the most popular games has been Winning Wednesdays—weekly contests across the city of Pittsburgh in which participants have had the chance to win sponsored goods including official Pirate’s gear, sponsor gift cards and entries to a number of city events. This interaction will continue through race weekend, May 1–3, with a variety of innovative opportunities. This week, P3R also launched a new race weekend mobile app from CrowdTorch that offers the latest in mobile event technology. The app will keep runners and spectators informed throughout the weekend’s 7 events as well as host trivia games and a virtual scavenger hunt at the GNC Live Well Pittsburgh Health and Fitness Expo on May 1–2. In addition, a variety of social media opportunities will take place encouraging everyone to share their piece of the journey. New to this year’s race options is the Steel Challenge for any runner who registers to run both the UPMC Health Plan/UPMC Sports Medicine Pittsburgh 5K Run on Saturday, May 2 and any of the three Sunday races taking place on May 3. More than 550 participating runners will earn a special bonus medal in addition to their Saturday and Sunday race medals. P3R is also taking advantage of the course’s five bridges with the first-ever West End Bridge Challenge during the Sunday races. The fastest male and female runners in their respective age group to cross the West End Bridge, between mile 6 and 7, will be awarded a prize. P3R ANNOUNCES PNC AS PRESENTING SPONSOR OF THE HANDCYCLE PORTION OF THE DICK’S SPORTING GOODS PITTSBURGH MARATHON Ten members of the Paralyzed Veterans of America will participate in this year’s race; clinic about adaptive cycling open to veterans and public during race weekend (PITTSBURGH, PA) Pittsburgh Three Rivers Marathon, Inc. (P3R) announced that PNC Bank will be the presenting sponsor of the Handcycle portion of the 2015 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. More than 20 are participating in the Handcycle Division this year, including 10 members from the Paralyzed Veterans’ Racing Team. “We support the determination and competitive nature that veterans and other athletes bring to the hand cycling event,” said Kathy D’Appolonia, manager, PNC Workplace Solutions. “Their ability to face the challenges of the course represents their spirit in the workplace. They are an inspiration to all of us.” Paralyzed Veterans of America also will be offering an Adaptive Cycling Clinic during race weekend on Saturday, May 2. One of four clinics offered nationally this year, this free event will be an opportunity for people of all skill levels to learn more about handcycling. “We are honored to showcase the Paralyzed Veterans’ Racing Team in this year’s Handcycle Division,” said P3R CEO Patrice Matamoros. “Their athletic endeavors will inspire the thousands of spectators who line the street on race day.” In addition to the Handcycle Division, PNC will also sponsor the Military Mile, which is located between miles 15 and 16 on the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon course. This dedicated mile of the race route will celebrate and recognize military service. For more information about the Pittsburgh Marathon Handcycle Division, visit http://www.pittsburghmarathon.com/wheelchairdivision. #GameOnPGH! 30 31 NEWS LOCAL ARTIST BARON BATCH NAMED OFFICIAL POSTER ARTIST OF THE 2015 DICKS SPORTING GOODS PITTSBURGH MARATHON His art and youth event participation support P3R’s Kids of STEEL program; live art piece to be auctioned at the GNC Live Well Pittsburgh Health & Fitness Expo PITTSBURGH, PA – Local, emerging artist Baron Batch has been selected as the official 2015 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon poster artist. Known for the gritty, stylistic blend of Pop Art and Expressionism he calls “Pop-X,” Batch will commemorate the runner experience with his piece. His art will also benefit Pittsburgh Three Rivers Marathon, Inc.’s Kids of STEEL program, which takes kids through a 4-month training period to instill lifelong healthy habits. “When my curator and I started brainstorming for the marathon design we reached out to several other community leaders in the city and asked what they possibly wanted to see for the design,” Batch said. “The feedback we consistently got was to make something iconic, memorable, and simple with a feel of its own. So that’s what we did. The design we came up with is symbolic of where the growth of Pittsburgh is going. I see Pittsburgh as a city that is becoming increasingly diverse with a future as bright as any, and that is what the multitude of colors represent. I see Pittsburgh as a city where each day you have to put on your shoes and go to work. And I love this city because it is a place where hard work does pay off.” Batch’s poster will be available for purchase starting in early March through event weekend, May 1-3, 2015. Batch, 27, who grew up in Midland, TX, plans to lend more than his unconventional skills with a paint brush. He will also serve as an honorary coach for Kids of STEEL. The Kids of STEEL program supports several community initiatives, including Project R.U.N. (Reaching Underserved Neighborhoods) and the Summer Dreamers Academy and encourages life-long, healthy habits in children by providing coaching, running gear and nutritional education to hundreds of Pittsburgh children. Batch’s art serves as a testament to his own struggles both personally and professionally. In an interview last September, he explains the value of steady progress: “Walk steps and you are boundless. I want to be boundless.” Batch’s artistic reflection and athletic mentorship will most certainly promote a sensation of boundlessness among the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon 30,000-plus event runners as they work to trace their own, unique path to the finish line. 32 33 AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM RISING STARS SHINING IN THE CITY OF CHAMPIONS SUPPORT | PROMOTION | COMMUNITY Launched in 2014 by Pittsburgh Three Rivers Marathon, Inc. (P3R), the American Development Program (ADP) is an innovative and comprehensive initiative to increase exposure and racing opportunities for emerging American professional runners. The program seeks to establish Pittsburgh as the destination to launch professional running careers and a site for Olympic hopefuls. The program offers complimentary entry, prize money, travel assistance and grant opportunities throughout the organization’s year-long calendar of events, including the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon, GNC Live Well Liberty Mile and the EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler. “Whether you are a miler or a marathoner, you will have a world-class racing experience in Pittsburgh. We are committed to providing an environment that encourages runners to become champions in the City of Champions.” – Patrice Matamoros, P3R CEO SUPPORT: PROPELLING ATHLETES TOWARD THEIR DREAMS 2014 HIGHLIGHTS Pennsylvania resident Clara Santucci won the 2014 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon and became the first American woman to do so since Kristen Price in 2009. Jordan McNamara won the inaugural American Development Program Pro Mile at the GNC Live Well Liberty Mile. Jordan then went on to win the storied Fifth Avenue Mile in New York City. Sara Hall set the race record at the EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler with a time of 53:46. The program has attracted two U.S. Olympians: Leo Manzano, the 2012 Olympic 1500m silver medalist, and Ryan Hall, American record holder in the half marathon. P3R awarded $82,500 in prize money to American athletes. P3R sponsored Team USA Minnesota, a post-collegiate distance training center focused on developing Olympians and national champions. PROMOTION: ATHLETE BRANDING AND ENGAGEMENT P3R’s team works to create engaging content for its athletes surrounding our events and in the community. Some of the examples include: 34 Athlete Press Releases Athlete Bios Social Media Engagement Fan Contests Big Heads Traditional and nontraditional press conferences 35 ELITES COMMUNITY: INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION The American Development Program (ADP) inspires the next generation of runners by connecting professional athletes to the Pittsburgh community. Before competing at P3R events, ADP ambassadors visit and interact with Pittsburgh youth at schools, community programs and special P3R events. 2014 HIGHLIGHTS • Clara Santucci and Ian Burrell were pen pals with Kids of STEEL participants. • Olympic silver medalist Leo Manzano, along with professional milers Jordan McNamara and Heather Kampf served as honorary coaches during the 5-week GNC Live Well Liberty Mile training program for 120 elementary and middle school students participating in the Summer Dreamers Academy, a Pittsburgh Public Schools program. • Local top high school milers were invited to a special pre-race dinner with professional athletes competing in the GNC Live Well Liberty Mile. The professional athletes shared their experiences as runners to inspire and encourage the high school athletes in their future running pursuits. • Local junior high and high school athletes were invited to a pre-race shakeout run at Station Square with U.S. half marathon record holder Ryan Hall and 4-time World Championship team member Sara Hall on Saturday, November 8. • More than 200 second, third and fifth graders at McClellan Elementary met Team USA Minnesota teammates Jon Grey, Jon Peterson and Gina Valgoi at a school assembly. For more information, go to: PittsburghMarathon.com/American-development-program P3R extends its American Development Program into its year-long calendar of events to bring the best American athletes to Pittsburgh for a variety of competitive distances: DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon May 3, 2015 UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon May 3, 2015 GNC Live Well Pittsburgh Liberty Mile July 31, 2015 EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler November 2015 36 37 TOP AMERICAN RUNNERS CHASING OLYMPIC DREAMS IN PITTSBURGH Top American marathoners will come to Pittsburgh this year in hopes of qualifying for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, which will be held February 13, 2016 in Los Angeles. Athletes have until January 17, 2016 to achieve the qualifying standards. They must achieve a “B” standard in order to participate and will receive funding support if they achieve the “A” standard. The U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials - qualifying standards are listed below. EVENT “A” “B” MEN: Marathon2:15:002:18:00 Half Marathon1:05:00 WOMEN: Marathon2:37:002:43:00 Half Marathon 1:15:00 Several of the athletes competing in the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon and the UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon have already qualified for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials: WOMEN Caitlin Comfort (1:12:16, Aramco Houston Half Marathon/USA Championships, 2014) Emily Gordon (2:39:58, Surf City USA Marathon, 2014) Christina Murphy (2:39:15, Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon, 2013) Clara Santucci (2:31:39, Bank of America Chicago Marathon, 2014) Carly Seymour (1:14:04, United Airlines NYC Half, 2015) MEN ELITE ATHLETE BIOS | MEN: MARATHON JAMES KIRWA BORN: 04/01/84 CITIZENSHIP: KENYA Despite dropping out of last year’s race, James Kirwa is a master of the Pittsburgh Marathon. The two-time champion of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon (2012-13) will return to the Steel City in May to chase a third title. PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:12:54, 2012 Des Moines Marathon Half Marathon: 1:05:14, 2011 San Diego America’s Finest City Half Marathon JOHN THUO BORN: 03/06/87 CITIZENSHIP: KENYA John Thuo is a Kenyan marathon specialist who competes for team Extremus. John will be making his U.S. racing debut on May 3. Recently, the 2008 World Cross Country team member placed third at the Thika Race Challenge Half Marathon in 1:04:20. PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:14:10, 2014 Kirinyaga Peace Run Half Marathon: 1:02:22, 2010 Almakab Half Marathon TYLER MCCANDLESS Stephen Pifer (1:04:13, Rock ‘n’ Roll Philadelphia, 2014) Tyler McCandless (2:15:26, Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon/USA Championships, 2014) Jeff Weiss (1:04:47, Anthem Virginia Beach Half Marathon, 2014) BORN: 10/14/86 CITIZENSHIP: USA A former All-American at Penn State University, Tyler McCandless plans to earn his PhD. in Meteorology from Penn State University before the 2016 U.S. Marathon Olympic Trials. McCandless is a 3-time champion of the Kauai Marathon and one of America’s top up-and-coming marathon talents. PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:15:26, 2014 USA Marathon Championships Half Marathon: 1:03:15, 2015 Naples Half Marathon 38 39 JED CHRISTIANSEN MULUE ANDOM BERHE BORN: 02/16/1987 CITIZENSHIP: USA Pennsylvania-native Jed Christiansen is an assistant track and cross country coach at Thiel College. Christiansen leads the American field after an impressive performance in the 2014 Bank of America Chicago Marathon clocking in at 2:18:55. BORN: 10/12/91 CITIZENSHIP: ERITREA Setting his current personal record of 2:11:03 in his marathon debut at the 2013 Amsterdam Marathon, this young contender brings an impressive track record to an already deep men’s field. PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:18:31, 2011 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Half Marathon: 1:06:01, 2013 Detroit International Half Marathon PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:11:03, 2013 Amsterdam Marathon Half Marathon: 1:01:28, 2012 Lille Half Marathon NEGASH ABEBE DUKI BRYAN MORSEMAN BORN: 09/04/85 CITIZENSHIP: USA In March, Bryan Morseman won the Montgomery Marathon, the Tobacco Road Marathon and the Shamrock Marathon in the span of eight days to cover medical costs for one of his two sons. Bryan Morseman has won 23 of the 42 marathons he has competed in. With a marathon personal record of 2:19:57, Morseman’s ultimate goal is to qualify for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. BORN: 01/19/90CITIZENSHIP: ETHIOPIA Placing sixth in the 2014 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, Negash Abebe Duki returns to Pittsburgh with hopes of beating his 2014 time of 2:21:25. Negash Abebe will also attempt to beat his existing personal record of 2:11:14, set in 2013 at the Kosice Peace Marathon. PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:11:14, 2013 Kosice Peace Marathon Half Marathon: 1:06:25, 2014 United Airlines New York City Half Marathon PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:19:57, 2014 Pocono Marathon Half Marathon: 1:07:18, 2011 Philadelphia Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon WERKUNEH ABOYE CHALA LEMI DEMIE BORN: 2/26/1987 CITIZENSHIP: ETHIOPIA Chala Lemi Demie leads the men’s field with the fastest personal best of 2:08:49 set at the Toronto Marathon in 2009. He will be a top contender to beat the course record in the 2015 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:08:49, 2009 Toronto Marathon 40 BORN: 09/11/84 CITIZENSHIP: ETHIOPIA Werkuneh Aboye is performing at his highest level yet this spring, setting a personal record of 30:26 in the 10K New York Scotland Road Run this April. Werkuneh Aboye is setting his sights on outperforming his current marathon personal record of 2:11:28 in the 2015 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:11:28, 2011 Palermo Marathon Half Marathon: 1:03:03, 2014 Korea Half Marathon 41 ALIPHINE TULIAMUK-BOLTON SHADRACK KIPKOGEY BORN: 6/23/91CITIZENSHIP: KENYA Shadrack Kipkogey comes to Pittsburgh with hopes of beating his fastest time of 2:14:19 set at the Sabarmati Marathon in 2014. He will be making his marathon debut on American soil at the 2015 DICK’S Sporting Good’s Pittsburgh Marathon. PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:14:19, 2014 Sabarmati Marathon BORN: 04/05/89 CITIZENSHIP: KENYA Making her marathon debut at the 2015 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, Aliphine Tuliamuk-Bolton was a 13-time All-American at Wichita State majoring in Public Health Science. A Kenya native, Tuliamuk-Bolton currently lives and trains in Santa Fe, New Mexico. PERSONAL BESTS: Half Marathon: 1:09:16 10K: 31:53, 2014 Boston Athletic Association 10K ELITE ATHLETE BIOS | WOMEN: MARATHON CLARA SANTUCCI BORN: 03/24/87 CITIZENSHIP: USA Clara Santucci is the reigning champion of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. Currently residing in Dilliner, PA, Santucci has risen from humble roots in a one-room schoolhouse in West Virginia to a running phenomenon. A 2015 P3R American Development Program Ambassador, Santucci’s goals for this year’s marathon include breaking the event record and defending her title. PERSONAL BESTS: Marathon: 2:29:54, 2011 B.A.A. Boston Marathon Half Marathon: 1:12:22, 2014 IAAF World Half Marathon Champions, KØbenhavn DEVON YANKO BORN: 06/23/82 CITIZENSHIP: USA As as a bakery owner, Devon Yanko is just as serious about food as she is her running career. Yanko’s best marathon performance this past year was the 2014 California International Marathon in Sacramento with a time of 2:46:00. Winner of the 2012 Napa Valley Marathon, Yanko has run more than 20 marathons and 30 ultra marathons since 2006. PERSONAL BESTS: Marathon: 2:38:55, 2012 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials KELSEY MARKHAM EMILY GORDON BORN: 01/11/93 CITIZENSHIP: USA A member of Team USA Minnesota, Emily Gordon recently graduated from UCLA with a B.S. in Biochemistry with plans to earn a PhD. in Food Science. As a college student, Emily transitioned from a 400-meter hurdler to triathlete to marathoner in just two years. She made her Pittsburgh racing debut in November at the EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler and is excited to return in May. BORN: 05/08/89 CITIZENSHIP: USA Dietitian and member of the Oiselle Running Team in West Virginia, Kelsey Markham is a graduate of Penn State University. In Pittsburgh this year, Kelsey hopes to qualify for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. PERSONAL BESTS: Marathon: 2:55:58, 2014 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Half Marathon: 1:20:32, 2014 Buffalo Half Marathon PERSONAL BESTS: Marathon: 2:39:58, 2014 Surf City Marathon Half Marathon: 1:14:13, 2013 San Diego Half Marathon 42 43 NAME: EMILY GIANNOTTI BORN: 07/12/92 CITIZENSHIP: USA Former cross country varsity captain at Penn State University, Emily Giannotti is a Coudersport native who is proud to call Pennsylvania home. The 2015 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon will be Giannotti’s marathon debut. PERSONAL BESTS: Half Marathon: 1:18:09, 2015 Mile (indoor): 4:57:53 3k Steeple: 10:28:82 EMILY POTTER BORN: 03/28/79 CITIZENSHIP: USA A U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program runner, Maj. Emily Potter made her goal of breaking 2:40 at the 2012 Chevron Houston Marathon, clocking in at 2:39:55. She comes to the 2015 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon with hopes of qualifying for the 2016 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. PERSONAL BESTS: Marathon: 2:39:55, 2012 Chevron Houston Marathon Half Marathon: 1:16:56, 2011 Jacksonville Marine Corps Half Marathon YIHUNLISH BEKELE BORN: 10/22/81 CITIZENSHIP: USA Placing first among women in the 2011 and second in the 2013 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathons, Yihunlish Bekele returns to Pittsburgh to reclaim her crown. PERSONAL BESTS: Marathon: 2:30:39, 2011 Grandma’s Marathon Half Marathon: 1:12:43, 2011 Philadelphia Half Marathon SERKALEM BISET ABRHA BORN: 03/08/87 CITIZENSHIP: ETHIOPIA Serkalem Biset Abrha ran 2:32:09 to win the San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon in 2010. She also recently won the 2015 26.2 with DONNA Marathon with a time of 2:39:10. PERSONAL BESTS: Marathon: 2:32:09, 2010 San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Half Marathon: 1:14:58, 2014 Big Sur Half Marathon CHRISTINA MURPHY BORN: 9/22/80CITIZENSHIP: USA A team member of the Columbus Running Company, Christina Murphy is a mother of two with a personal marathon best of 2:39:15 in 2013, which qualifies her for the 2016 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. PERSONAL BESTS: Marathon: 2:39:15, 2013 Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon Half Marathon: 1:16:32, 2014 Capital City Half Marathon 44 45 ELITE ATHLETE BIOS | MEN: HALF MARATHON TESFAYE GIRMA BEKELE YONAS MEBRAHTU BORN: 01/12/88 CITIZENSHIP: ERITREA A native of Eritrea and now a resident of Flagstaff, Arizona, Yonas Mebrahtu won the Great Bisbee 1000 Stair Climb in 27:45 last October. BORN: 09/25/82 CITIZENSHIP:KENYA Placing 7th in the 2013 UPMC Health Plan Half Marathon with a time of 1:04:46, Tesfaye Girma Bekele is returning to Pittsburgh in 2015. He boasts a personal record of 1:00:35. PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:16:57, 2008 Frankfurt Marathon Half Marathon: 1:02:59, 2014 Philadelphia Half Marathon PERSONAL BESTS Half Marathon: 1:00:35, 2011 NYC Half Marathon JULIUS KOGO JORDAN CHIPANGAMA BORN: 08/12/85 CITIZENSHIP: KENYA Julius Kogo won the 2013 UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon, setting the event record at 1:02:32. He returns to Pittsburgh this year to reclaim his title and outperform his personal best of 1:01:47 set in 2011. BORN: 11/12/88 CITIZENSHIP: USA A member of the Northern Arizona Elite, Jordan Chipangama was born in Zambia before becoming a U.S. citizen. Chipangama is a former Northern Arizona University Lumberjack. PERSONAL BESTS Half Marathon: 1:01:47, 2011 News & Sentinel Parkersburg Half Marathon PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:12:21, 2014 Grandma’s Marathon Half Marathon: 1:03:22, 2013 GO! St. Louis Half Marathon GEOFFREY NGETICH AYELE MEGERSA FEISA BORN: 10/08/84CITIZENSHIP: KENYA Accomplished Kenyan distance runner Geoffrey Ngetich excels at distances from the 5K to the half marathon. He is aiming for the win on May 3 against a very strong field. PERSONAL BESTS Half Marathon: 1:00:01, 2014 World Aids Half Marathon BORN: 01/31/88 CITIZENSHIP: ETHIOPIA Setting a half marathon personal best of 1:03:03 at the 2013 Philadelphia Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon, Ayele Megersa Feisa will chase down a new personal record as one of the top five competitors in the 2015 UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon. PERSONAL BESTS Half Marathon: 1:03:03, 2013 Philadelphia Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon 46 47 ELITE ATHLETE BIOS | WOMEN: HALF MARATHON CARLY SEYMOUR BETRAM KETER BORN: 04/10/89 CITIZENSHIP: KENYA Betram Keter came in second place at the 2014 Parkersburg Half Marathon, where he set his personal half marathon record of 1:04:17. PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:09:27, 2011 Carpi Marathon Memorial Enzo Ferrari Half Marathon: 1:04:17, 2014 Parkersburg Half Marathon BORN: 03/07/90 CITIZENSHIP: USA The 2015 UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon will be Carly’s second half-marathon. This past March she placed 20th overall in her first half-marathon at the United Airlines New York City Half Marathon. PERSONAL BESTS Half Marathon: 1:14:04 10K: 34:01, 2014 Pittsburgh Great Race NIK SCHWEIKERT BORN: 09/29/86 CITIZENSHIP: USA A Newton Running Elite, this family man is currently pursuing his teaching license in physical and health education. Nik Schweikert’s most recent personal record was set at the 2010 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. This year, he plans to compete in the USATF National Championship races with a focus on qualifying for the 2016 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. PERSONAL BESTS Marathon: 2:24:12, 2010 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Half Marathon: 1:05:52, 2009 Houston Half Marathon CAITLIN COMFORT BORN: 09/20/89 CITIZENSHIP: USA Hailing from Madison, Wisconsin, Caitlin Comfort came in 3rd at the 2014 USA Half Marathon Championships. Caitlin Comfort’s personal training mantra is: “Life is not a problem to be solved, but a gift to be enjoyed.” PERSONAL BESTS Half Marathon: 1:12:16, Aramco Houston Half Marathon/USA Half Marathon Championships HELLEN JEMUTAI BORN: 10/11/88 CITIZENSHIP: KENYA Hellen Jemutai placed 3rd in the 2012 UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon, clocking 1:13:45. She leads the 2015 women’s field with a personal record of 1:10:49 set at the 2010 Italian Marathon Memorial Enzo Ferrari Half Marathon. PERSONAL BESTS Half Marathon: 1:10:49, 2010 Italian Marathon Memorial Enzo Ferrari 48 49 2015 DICK’S SPORTING GOODS PITTSBURGH MARATHON AWARD STRUCTURE SOPHY JEPCHIRCHIR BORN: 11/15/1993 CITIZENSHIP: KENYA Sophy Jepchirchir is the reigning champion of the 2014 UPMC Health Pittsburgh Half Marathon, setting the event record at 1:11:37. She will attempt to beat her personal half marathon record of 1:11:36, set at the 2014 Parkersburg Half Marathon. PERSONAL BESTS Half Marathon: 1:11:36, 2014 Parkersburg Half Marathon Cash prizes will be awarded to the top male and female finishers. The 2015 prize awards are listed below: MARATHON/OVERALL 1st- $8,000 2nd- $6,000 3rd- $4,000 4th- $2,500 5th- $1,500 6th- $1,000 7th- $500 MARATHON/MASTERS 1st- $1,000 2nd- $500 3rd- $250 MARATHON U.S. 1st- $4,500 2nd- $3,500 3rd- $2,500 4th- $1,500 5th- $1,000 MARATHON PENNSYLVANIA RESIDENT: 1st- $1,000 JENNIFER BIGHAM BORN: 07/17/81 CITIZENSHIP: USA A Pittsburgh native, Jennifer Bigham has not let parenthood stop her from competing at her highest level yet. A runner for team Oiselle, Bigham hopes to beat her 2014 UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon time of 1:19:24. PERSONAL BESTS Half Marathon: 1:15:58, 2015 Shamrock Half Marathon MARATHON STEEL CITY ROAD RUNNER MEMBER: 1st- $500 MARATHON WHEELCHAIR ATHLETES (PUSH RIM): 1st- $1,000 2nd- $500 3rd- $250 HALF MARATHON/OVERALL: 1st- $6,500 2nd- $4,000 3rd- $3,000 4th- $2,000 5th- $1,000 6th- $500 7th- $250 HALF MARATHON U.S. 1st - $3000 2nd - $2000 3rd - $1000 4th - $750 5th - $500 ASKALE MERACHI U.S. OLYMPIC TRIALS QUALIFER BONUS: BORN: 01/04/87 CITIZENSHIP: ETHIOPIA Askale Merachi is running the 2015 UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon for the first time. She will be striving to break her current personal record of 1:12:19 from the 2014 New York City Half Marathon. Bonus will be given for athletes who earn their “A” or “B” qualifying standards for the 2016 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials (Men 2:18 and Women 2:43 or faster) PERSONAL BESTS Half Marathon: 1:12:19, 2014 New York City Half Marathon 50 Prizes will be awarded for the top three finishers for the Marathon in the following age categories for men and women: 19 & Under, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79 and 80+ 51 HISTORIC PITTSBURGH MARATHON WINNERS: 1985–2014 EVENT RECORD BONUS: A bonus of $10,000 will be awarded to the first person to break the Pittsburgh Marathon men’s record of 2:10:46, set by John Kagwe in 2010, and the women’s record of 2:29:50, set by Margaret Groos, set in 1988. CLYDESDALE (MEN OVER 200 LBS) AND ATHENA DIVISIONS (WOMEN OVER 150 LBS)* WINNERS WILL BE AWARDED IN THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES: Marathon Top 2 Male Over 40 Marathon Top 2 Male Under 40 Marathon Top 2 Female Over 40 Marathon Top 2 Female Under 40 *To be eligible competitors must weigh in at the GNC Live Well Pittsburgh Health and Fitness Expo on Friday, May 1 from 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. or Saturday, May 2 from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. All finishing participants will receive a finisher medal. Special note on awards and cash prizes: • • • • • Cash awards are based on gun time not chip time. Runners can only win awards and/or cash prizes for the event they are officially registered in. Overall and Master category winners are not eligible for age group awards. U.S. and Pennsylvania are bonus categories and are eligible for overall prize money and age group awards. The DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon has a zero tolerance drug policy. Athletes who participate in DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon events may be subject to drug testing conducted by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA). Athletes with positive drug test results will forfeit any prize money and will be disqualified from the event in which such athlete participated. YEAR MENWOMEN 2014 Gebo Gameda – 2:16:30 Clara Santucci – 2:32:25 2013 James Kirwa – 2:13:27 Yihunilish Bekele Delelecha – 2:41:30 2012 James Kirwa – 2:14:09 Malika Mejdoub – 2:39:31 2011 Jeffrey Eggleston – 2:16:40 Yinhunlish Bejeke Delelcha – 2:35:36 2010 Kipyegon Kirui – 2:17:12 Alena Vintskaya – 2:42:34 2009 Kassahun Kabiso – 2:22:51 Kristen Price – 2:36:51 2003 Juan Camacho Pina – 2:12:05 Lioudmila Kortchaguin – 2:29:53 2002 Reuben Chesang – 2:14:53 Wioletta Kryza – 2:31:45 2001 Elly Rono – 2:17:15 Wioletta Kryza – 2:34:16 2000 Kevin Taylor – 2:15:30 Tammy Slusser – 2:53:30 1999 Alfredo Vigueras – 2:14:20 Tatiana Titova – 2:40:00 1998 Keith Brantly – 2:12:31** Almina Galliamova – 2:36:50 1997 David Scudamore – 2:12:48 Tatiana Ivanova – 2:37:41 1996 Ruben Maza – 2:12:02 Tamara Karlioukova – 2:36:12 1995 John Kagwe – 2:10:24* Alina Ivanova – 2:35:30 1994 Abel Gisemba – 2:13:51 Tammy Slusser – 2:37:14 1993 Abel Gisemba – 2:16:55 L. Bussieres-Chafe – 2:35:39 1992 Jorge Gonzales – 2:17:33 Albina Galliamova – 2:32:02 1991 Herbert Steffny – 2:16:21 Lynn MacDougall – 2:42:45 1990 Dick Hooper – 2:15:49 Conceicao Ferreira – 2:30:34 1989 Ken Martin – 2:15:28 Margaret Groos – 2:32:39 1988 Malcolm East – 2:19:50 Margaret Groos – 2:29:50* 1987 Rodolfo Gomez – 2:13:18 Silvia Ruegger – 2:31:53 1986 Dean Matthews – 2:18:18 Laura Fogli – 2:37:06 1985 Ken Martin – 2:12:57 Lisa Martin – 2:31:52 * denotes race record ** denotes American record; $100,000 prize was awarded for this achievement 52 53 2014 TOP 25 OVERALL FINISHERS: HISTORIC PITTSBURGH HALF MARATHON WINNERS: 2009–2014 DICK’S SPORTING GOODS PITTSBURGH MARATHON, MEN’S YEAR MENWOMEN PLACENAME 2014 Habtamu Assefa – 1:02:45 Sophy Jepchirchir – 1:11:37* 1 Gebo Gameda 2013 Julius Kogo – 1:02:32 * Risper Gesabwa – 1:13:16 2 2012 Julius Koskei – 1:02:57 Fatuma Sado – 1:12:43 2011 Nicholas Kurgat – 1:03:38 Malika Mejdoub – 1:14:26 2010 Ryan Sheehan – 1:05:13 Kristin Price – 1:17:37 2009 Greg Costello – 1:07:54 Rahab Ndungu – 1:17:16 * denotes race record AGE COUNTRY CITY STATE TIME 26 ETH West Chester PA 2:16:30 Fidele Jefferson 36 USA Flagstaff AZ 2:17:37 3 Tewodros Zewdu 23 ETH New York NY 2:18:50 4 Takele Gebreliul 34 ETH Washington DC 2:19:26 5 Joseph Mutinda 39 KEN Santa Fe NM 2:19:28 6 Negash Abebe Duki 24 ETH New York NY 2:21:25 7 Tesfaye Assefa Dube 30 ETH New York NY 2:22:14 8 Jed Christiansen 27 USA Greenville PA 2:22:39 9 Josh Ordway 29 USA Franklin OH 2:29:43 10 Richard Morris 26 USA Burkeville VA 2:35:10 11 Charles Seigneur 23 USA Allison Park PA 2:37:10 12 Adam Cantini 22 USA Pittsburgh PA 2:37:30 13 James Hommes 43 USA Pittsburgh PA 2:37:43 14 Matthew Hammersmith 26 USA Greenville SC 2:37:48 15 Alfredo Shabot MEX Mexico Df 2:41:19 16 Aaron Misera 23 USA Washington 17 Sean Gallagher 31 USA Clearwater 18 Jared Fry 27 USA INT Lubbock 19 Adam Karwaski 24 USA 20 Luke Badaczewski 22 21 Dave Mock 22 Eric Anish 23 33 DC 2:42:04 FL 2:42:32 TX 2:43:06 Trucksville INT 2:43:14 USA Gibsonia PA 2:43:14 27 USA Imperial PA 2:43:30 45 USA Pittsburgh PA 2:44:07 Colin Heenan 25 USA Liverpool NY 2:44:28 24 Christopher Martin 37 USA Lawrenceville NJ 2:44:37 25 Jeremy Cornman 35 USA Leetsdale PA 2:44:50 2014 TOP WHEELCHAIR FINISHERS, MEN’S 54 PLACENAME AGE COUNTRY CITY STATE TIME 1 David Neumer 51 USA Kingston TN 1:32:31 2 Geoff Hopkins 48 USA Fredericksburg VA 1:32:31 3 James Cook 23 USA Salisbury MD 1:39:52 55 RESULTS AND RECORDS 2014 TOP WHEELCHAIR FINISHERS, WOMEN’S 2014 TOP MASTERS FINISHERS, MEN’S PLACENAME AGE COUNTRY CITY STATE TIME PLACENAME AGE COUNTRY CITY STATE TIME 1 James Hommes 43 USA Pittsburgh PA 2:37:43 1 42 USA PA 2 Eric Anish 45 USA Pittsburgh PA 2:44:07 3 Scott Reamer 41 USA West Newton PA 2:45:21 2014 TOP 25 OVERALL FINISHERS: DICK’S SPORTING GOODS PITTSBURGH MARATHON, WOMEN’S PLACENAME AGE COUNTRY CITY 1 Clara Santucci 27 USA Dilliner 2 Yeshimebet Bifa 28 ETH White Plains 3 Meseret Ali Basa 25 ETH 4 Tezata Dengersa 34 ETH Washington 5 Jane Vongvorachoti 30 USA New York 6 Aregash Gubae 22 ETH Bronx 7 Mira Tuominen 32 FIN Lynchburg 8 Kathleen Jobes 44 USA Bethlehem 9 Mindy Sawrelle-Zottola 41 USA Indiana 10 Anna Balouris 25 USA Hollidaysburg 11 Jonna Trexler 24 USA Pittsburgh 12 Claire Long 22 USA Golden Beach 13 Maggie Kanak 8 USA Newtown 14 Erica Maloney 32 USA 15 Dana Catanzaro 36 USA Pittsburgh 16 Marie-Louise Asselin 25 USA Morgantown 17 Jennifer Haffner 22 USA Pittsburgh 18 Leslie Kramer 36 USA Slippery Rock 19 Christy Crummy 32 USA Wexford 20 Tammy Slusser 49 USA Monroeville 21 Erin Price 27 USA Clarksburg 22 Katie Schmiech 23 USA Wexford 23 Stacy Kopchak 50 USA 24 Jeanne Debonis 48 25 Jo Rupp 41 STATE TIME PA 2:32:25 MD 2:34:45 2:40:41 DC 2:42:02 NY 2:44:51 NY 2:47:14 VA 2:54:04 PA 2:54:45 PA 2:55:42 PA 2:56:24 PA 2:58:22 FL 3:01:20 PA 3:04:02 PA 3:11:50 WV 3:12:42 PA 3:13:52 PA 3:14:18 PA 3:14:59 PA 3:15:29 WV 3:16:31 PA 3:17:01 Gibsonia PA 3:17:41 USA Brecksville OH 3:19:33 USA Pittsburgh PA 3:19:33 56 3:07:21 Ashli Molinero Bethel Park 2:03:04 2014 TOP MASTERS FINISHERS, WOMEN’S PLACENAME AGE COUNTRY CITY STATE TIME 1 Kathleen Jobes 44 USA Bethlehem PA 2:54:45 2 Mindy Sawrelle-Zottola 41 USA Indiana PA 2:55:42 3 Tammy Slusser USA Monroeville PA 3:15:29 49 2014 TOP 25 OVERALL FINISHERS: 2014 TOP 25 OVERALL FINISHERS: UPMC HEALTH PLAN PITTSBURGH HALF MARATHON, MEN’S UPMC HEALTH PLAN PITTSBURGH HALF MARATHON, WOMEN’S PLACENAME AGE 1 Habtamu Assefa 2 Emmanuel Bor 3 COUNTRY CITY PA 1:02:45 1 Sophy Jepchirchir 1:02:46 2 Hirut Damte 19 NY 1:03:36 3 Heather Lieberg 34 26 AGE COUNTRY CITY STATE TIME NC 1:11:37 NY 1:13:24 MT 1:15:53 ETH 20 KEN Reuben Limaa 28 KEN Nyack 4 Eliud Ngetich 20 KEN New York NY 1:03:55 4 Sallie Ford 5 Diriba Degefa Yigezu 26 ETH New York NY 1:05:00 5 Jennifer Bigham 32 6 Amos Sang 25 KEN Indian Orchard MA 1:05:19 6 Malika Mejdoub 31 MOR Albuquerque 7 Christian Thompson 25 USA Wyncote PA 1:05:54 7 Elizabeth Perry 36 USA Pittsburgh 8 Benjamin Sathre 24 USA Chaska MN 1:06:58 8 Line Lauritsen 31 USA Mc Henry 9 Ian Burrell 29 USA Tucson AZ 1:07:31 9 Lisa Lucas 48 USA Upper Saint Clair PA 1:21:54 10 Tommy Kauffmann 24 USA Cincinnati OH 1:07:41 10 Gina Bartolacci 26 USA Coraopolis PA 1:22:52 11 Chase Pizzonia 28 USA Bronx NY 1:08:45 11 Stephanie Smith 32 USA Detroit MI 1:23:28 12 Justin Taylor 24 USA Milwaukee WI 1:10:22 12 Cheryl Gaton 47 USA Greensburgh PA 1:23:48 13 Benjamin Hutterer 25 USA Red Bank NJ 1:12:52 13 Jenielle Hunt 25 PA 1:24:18 14 Christopher Post 25 USA Jacksonville FL 1:12:57 14 Megan Tramaglini 23 15 Kevin Wanichko 26 USA Greensburg PA 1:12:59 15 Lauren Moskal 24 16 Caleb Muller 23 USA Pittsburgh PA 1:13:07 16 Samantah McNally 17 Christopher Cipro 24 USA State College PA 1:13:36 17 Alissa Smith 18 Owen Venesky 23 USA Cabot PA 1:13:51 18 Jessica Gangjee 19 John Balouris 28 USA Hollidaysburg PA 1:14:29 19 Alicia Revitsky 20 James Gordish 33 USA Pittsburgh PA 1:14:35 20 Mary Beth Acker 21 Jeffrey Bigham 33 USA Pittsbugh PA 1:15:39 21 Sarah Olesky 22 Job Christiansen 23 USA Kent OH 1:15:48 22 Elizabeth McHale 20 23 Scott Purcell 32 USA West Chester PA 1:15:53 23 Chelsea Kennedy 30 24 Josh Hooke 25 USA North Huntingdon PA 1:16:01 24 Kaitlin Grimm 25 Stephen Febish 25 USA Baltimore 1:16:02 25 Katherine Theisen 58 PLACENAME 29 West Chester STATE TIME MD 20 KEN New York City USA Helena USA Jacksonville FL 1:17:30 Pittsburgh PA 1:19:24 NM 1:21:20 PA 1:21:25 MD 1:21:51 USA USA Monroeville USA Pittsburgh PA 1:25:31 USA Pittsburgh PA 1:25:56 Lancaster PA 1:26:15 USA 33 USA Pittsburgh PA 1:26:59 35 USA Allison Park PA 1:27:32 USA State College PA 1:27:36 34 USA New Wilmington PA 1:29:07 24 USA South Park PA 1:29:10 USA Holland PA 1:29:13 USA Coraopolis PA 1:29:27 25 USA Pittsburgh PA 1:29:38 27 USA Pittsburgh PA 1:29:55 27 ETH 27 Chapel Hill 59 60 61 62 63 P3R – KEEPING PITTSBURGH RUNNING OUR MISSION Pittsburgh Three Rivers Marathon, Inc. (P3R) is a non-profit organization which promotes the love of long-distance running and enhances community involvement in fitness activities through high quality events open to a wide variety of ages and ability levels. Our events will consistently serve the needs of our runners and our sponsors; will engage and reward our volunteers; will enhance the economic well-being of the Pittsburgh region; will partner with public and private entities to create the best possible event experience; and partner with appropriate charitable organizations to give back to the community. CORE PROGRAMMING KIDS OF STEEL – Instilling lifelong, healthy habits in kids. Kids of STEEL is an exercise and nutrition program designed to motivate children to pursue quality nutrition and an active lifestyle by incorporating exercise and healthy eating habits into their daily routine. STEEL CITY ROAD RUNNERS (SCRR) – Cultivating a running community. Steel City Road Runners (SCRR) is Pittsburgh’s premier running organization, and an official Road Runners Club of America running club. SCRR is the “go-to” group for all things running in the Pittsburgh/Greater Pittsburgh area. AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM – Supporting future Olympians. The American Development Program is an initiative designed to increase exposure and racing opportunities for emerging American professional runners. With initiatives to propel runners forward in their running careers to international standings and participation in world-renowned athletic events, Pittsburgh’s American Development Program is committed to supporting and promoting promising American athletes. RUN FOR A REASON PROGRAM – Giving back to the community. Giving back to the community and changing lives are important to our organization’s mission and is the basis of our Run for a Reason charity program. In 2014, our charity runners raised more than $1.6 million for their local causes, and funds raised in Pittsburgh, stay in Pittsburgh. COMMITTING TO SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES – Leaving the course better than we found it. P3R is committed to sustainability practices and works with community organizations to achieve green initiatives including: transforming vacant lots on the course to community gardens and/or art spaces; composting bananas and peels, cookies and cups from finish line operations and race course aid stations; and donating clothes left by runners to Goodwill. HOSTING WORLD CLASS EVENTS – A race for every runner. P3R is committed to providing world class events that attract both an elite field and the recreational runner. With our flagship event receiving a 5-Star rating on MarathonGuide.com and #8 ranking in the world by Active Times the DICK’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon participants value the community-oriented atmosphere and diligence of event staff and volunteers on race day. 64 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND PARTICIPATION – Neighborhoods, cheerathoners and bands. Community participation of the residents and neighborhood groups are instrumental. Exciting bands and energetic cheerathoners are two of the many reasons that runners choose to participate in our event. OUR EVENTS DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon FedEx Ground Pittsburgh Marathon Relay UPMC Health Plan/UPMC Sports Medicine Pittsburgh 5K Run Toyota of Pittsburgh Kids Marathon Purina Pro Plan Pittsburgh Pet Walk GNC Live Well Pittsburgh Health and Fitness Expo GNC Live Well Liberty Mile EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler OUR PROMISES All who engage with P3R and its events can expect: A PERSONAL CHALLENGE Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness program, P3R provides the motivation you need to take it to the next level. AN EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCE P3R is committed to making it fun, easy and exciting to be healthy! When you attend or sponsor a P3R race, worksho, or other event, you will enjoy a top-quality experience from start-to-finish. HEALTH AND FITNESS EXPERTISE From eating right and training well to choosing the right gear, P3R’s health & fitness experts stay on top of the latest knowledge to help you reach your performance goals. INSIDER ACCESS TO AN INCREDIBLE CITY Runners and spectators alike can explore all that Pittsburgh has to offer through P3R’s eclectic race courses, fun race-day event, and special offers for shopping, dining, entertainment, and lodging. 65 RUN FOR A REASON CHARITY PROGRAM FUNDS RAISED IN PITTSBURGH, STAY IN PITTSBURGH Motivated by battling disease, homelessness and hunger, supporting education and the arts, saving animals and advocating equal rights - each year, thousands of charity runners take to the Pittsburgh streets for the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. More than 2,500 charity runners aim to raise over $1 million this year to support 100-plus organizations and programs both locally and nationally. The Run for a Reason charity program strengthens ties between the running community and charities thereby assisting the charities in providing much needed financial support. Lauren DiMaria, Development Director of Cystic Fibrosis Foundation comments that their “organization has a very high standard – nationally we are known to be at over 90 cents of every dollar raised going towards the mission, and we are more than happy that this program fits into these national standards.” Participants also have a strong initiative to keep funds local. From building handicapaccessible baseball fields, to providing mattresses and bedding for the local homeless shelters for one year, runners are leaving their mark. With each step runners are that much closer to a cure, solution, breakthrough and success. No matter your cause, anyone can run for a reason. OFFICIAL CHARITIES Organization for Autism Research Our Clubhouse Pirates Charities Cutch’s Crew Pittsburgh Kids Foundation St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Steel City Greyhounds Susan G. Komen Pittsburgh Team In Training Team Red, White and Blue The ALS Association Western Pennsylvania Chapter The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society The Oasis Recovery Center The Pittsburgh Promise Urban Impact Western PA Humane Society Will Run For Food Women’s Choice Network YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh Alzheimer’s Association American Heart Association Animal Rescue League Shelter and Wildlife Center Autism Connection of PA Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation Cody’s Crew Foundation Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Dirty Vagabond Ministries Genre’s Kids with Cancer Fund Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank Haiti H2O Imagine No Malaria JDRF Joshua House Community Center Light of Life Rescue Mission Mario Lemieux Foundation Miracle League of the South Hills, Casey’s Clubhouse National Multiple Sclerosis Society North Hills Community Outreach 66 67 KIDS OF STEEL PROGRAM Since its inception in 2010, Kids of STEEL has expanded to 120-plus schools/organizations participating with approximately 6,000 kids from 10 different counties. Kids of STEEL is an exercise and nutrition program organized by P3R designed to motivate children to pursue quality nutrition and an active lifestyle by incorporating exercise and healthy eating habits into their daily routine. During the four-month training period children: Earn miles to run the equivalent of a marathon (26.2 miles) Try new fruits, vegetables, beans and nuts each week Learn the benefits of setting a goal, training and achieving that goal. Track miles and food tastings on a training log and turn it in for a finisher prize to recognize their achievement Kids of STEEL participants can complete the last mile of the program in one of two optional runs (both held the Saturday of marathon weekend): 1. The Toyota of Pittsburgh Kids Marathon is a one mile fun run (not timed) for children to run with family and friends or 2. The UPMC Health Plan/UMPC Sports Medicine Pittsburgh 5K Run for more advanced runners. In 2015, P3R launched Project R.U.N. (Reaching Underserved Neighborhoods) to provide enhanced Kids of STEEL programming to three community organizations: Bethany House Academy in Northview Heights, Homewood Children’s Village in Homewood and Hosanna House in Wilkinsburg. Children at these sites will receive complimentary Toyota of Pittsburgh Kids Marathon registrations, transportation to and from the race, and running shoes! 68 69 NEIGHBORHOODS The race day experience features more than just pavement and Gatorade. Enjoy the sights and sounds of more than 60 bands and 30 cheerathoners in the largest Pittsburgh music festival that spans 26.2 miles. Each neighborhood has a party to keep runners motivated all the way to the finish line. #GameOnPGH the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy will offer sweet treats, a carousel and tempting finger foods courtesy of The Porch restaurant. A hot spot for students of all ages, Oakland will also feature a crew of kids performing outside of the WQED station! START: (DOWNTOWN, LIBERTY AVENUE) Spectator-lined streets will keep runners’ momentum going as they surround themselves with charming boutiques and calypso music. Official spectator stands will be set up at the intersection of South Aiken Avenue & Walnut Street. The dedicated cheerathoners of the Community Day School and members of the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh will lead the pack in moving runners through a grown-up’s playground. Feed off the electricity of 30,000-plus runners as they prepare to embark on their journeys. Runners and spectators can enjoy a powerful rendition of the national anthem from local talent Greta Shepardson, lead singer for Shades of June, and the soulful harmonies of a barbershop quartet. The morning lineup will rev up runners before the gun start. NORTH SIDE: THE HEART OF THE COMPETITION IN PITTSBURGH, MILES 3-5 (OHIO STREET AND EAST COMMONS) As runners cross the 16th Street Bridge into the North Side, they will be greeted by the Urban Impact League’s “Welcome Squad.” They will then zoom through a Monopoly: The North Shore Edition featuring game pieces and signs, pass Team Mimosa’s annual brunch party and a soothing a-capella performance by the Alliance Church Choir, and then hear DJs at the Western PA Humane Society and the historic Allegheny West neighborhood cheer stations. SHADYSIDE: HALFWAY GATEWAY, MILES 14-16 (FIFTH AVENUE AND WILKINS AVENUE) HOMEWOOD: KEEPING IT GREEN! MILES 17-18 (FRANKSTOWN AVENUE) As runners pass Frankstown Ave., they will see a vacant lot that was newly cleaned and greened by GTECH Strategies with the help of FedEx Ground and Operation Better Block. As part of the ReClaim the Route Initiative, the vacant lot will soon be the home of a garden. The site will feature Canstruction Pittsburgh’s one-of-a-kind sculpture of donated canned food on race day. After race weekend, the sculpture will be dismantled, and the food will be donated to the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank. WEST END: THE TRIPLE THREAT: MUSIC, THEATER, AND DANCE FOR EVERY AGE, MILES 6-8 (SOUTH MAIN STREET AND ALEXANDER STREET) After crushing miles 6-7 on the West End Bridge, runners approach a colorful display of the city’s best performing arts groups including Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s Xtreme Teen Broadway and the The Elite Show Band. Keep an eye out for a banner hung from the Duquesne Incline courtesy of the Albert Gallatin Junior ROTC. The Norwin High School Class of 1979 will also be keeping with tradition and cheering on runners in front of Station Square. SOUTH SIDE: THE PARTY CAPITAL OF PITTSBURGH, MILES 8-9 (1200 CARSON STREET) At mile 8-9, the South Side Chamber of Commerce hosts a party in one of Pittsburgh’s most eclectic neighborhoods of bars and restaurants. Official spectator bleachers will be available between 10th and 11th streets. The School of Athens will be performing outside of the historic Mario’s South Side Saloon. This potpourri of entertainment will also feature authentic bagpipe players, a beach-themed party by the Hurry Home Hounds and characters from the Spotlight Costume Shop. Spectators can get their fill of giveaways from E-ZPass as runners approach the flattest section of the course. OAKLAND: A TRIP DOWN COLLEGE LANE, MILES 13-14 (SCHENLEY PLAZA) The urban hub of academic and research institutions in Pittsburgh, Oakland hosts their official festival in Schenley Plaza and it is sure to pull students away from their books to cheer on runners after their calf-burning trek up the infamous hill at mile 12. This party presented by 70 71 RECLAIM THE ROUTE HIGHLAND PARK: SHOW YOUR STRIPES, MILE 20 (HIGHLAND AVENUE & BRYANT STREET) After holding a sign-making party prior to race day, Highland Park residents will be ready to welcome runners with live brass band Hill Jordan & Slide Worldwide and the promotional team from Pittsburgh’s Big 104.7. Runners can also catch the mascots of the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium! BLOOMFIELD: BLAST FROM THE PAST, MILE 21 (LIBERTY AVENUE AND ELLA STREET) After conquering “the wall” at mile 20, runners will cruise through an array of fiery tulips and assortment of retro entertainment including Bloomfield’s best Elvis impersonator, tunes by Bob Scallion & The Mystics and toe-tapping selections from the Steel City Angels. DOWNTOWN: THE FINAL STRETCH AND CELEBRATION As their incredible adventure comes to a close, runners will rock the pavement with Code Whiskey and For Those About to Rock. The Finish Line Festival awaits runners with more music, food, vendors, the Geico PR Bell and merchandise, including the race poster designed by local artist Baron Batch. FINISH LINE FESTIVAL IN POINT STATE PARK Presented by Sierra Nevada Main Stage Band 10:30 a.m. - The Delaneys Presented by Sierra Nevada Live Music Lineup 11:00 a.m. – Shade of June 1:00 p.m. – Act of Pardon 3:00 p.m. – The Five 6 On the selected site this year on Frankstown Ave., GTECH Strategies is working with FedEx Ground and Operation Better Block to clean, green and improve the site for a community garden. On race day, Canstruction Pittsburgh will be building a one-of-a-kind sculpture made entirely out of donated canned food from Whole Foods. After race weekend, the sculpture will be dismantled, and the food will be donated to the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank. CLEAN-UP DAY To prepare the lot for race day, FedEx Ground employees along with volunteers from Operation Better Block will participate in a community cleanup and planting day on Friday, April 24. RACE DAY On race day, Homewood will host a neighborhood block party to celebrate the 2015 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. Thousands of runners will see the one-of-a-kind sculpture as they pass through their neighborhood at Mile 18 of the course. ABOUT RECLAIM THE ROUTE MARKET SQUARE POST-RACE PARTY Each year Pittsburgh Three Rivers Marathon, Inc. (P3R) is proud to support initiatives that improve the neighborhoods impacted by the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon course. P3R is once again partnering with GTECH Strategies on their ReClaim the Route Initiative to clean and green a vacant lot in Homewood and then transform the site into an installation art piece on race day. For a complete list of all the bands and cheerathoners along the coure on race day, visit PittsburghMarathon.com/Entertainment Growth Through Energy + Community Health [GTECH] Strategies and the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon have partnered for the past three years to combat blighted, vacant lots along the DICKS’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon’s route. There are nearly 500 vacant lots along the route, most of which are found in neighborhoods with above average occurrences of crime, high school dropout rates and lower income levels. Through the transformation of these spaces into community assets, we aim to empower communities and spark conversation of progress among neighbors. Both our organizations are dedicated to enhancing the vibrancy of Pittsburgh with this initiative and we need your help. By sponsoring green strategies in City neighborhoods, partner organizations play a role in building resident capacity and community pride. Greening a vacant lot is more than simply beautifying a physical space; it inspires residents to think idealistically about how a space becomes a place. For more information, visit gtechstrategies.org BEST NEIGHBORHOODS ON THE COURSE AS VOTED BY RUNNERS 2014 - Bloomfield 2013 - Homewood 72 73 PITTSBURGH CORPORATE WELLNESS CHALLENGE MEET OUR SPONSORS The Pittsburgh Corporate Wellness Challenge is an opportunity for corporations and companies of all sizes to promote workplace wellness and build teamwork across departments and within each organization! This program is an easy way to get coworkers active and having fun. Pittsburgh Corporate Wellness Challenge team members receive: Private area in Finish Line Festival Discounted Steel City Road Runner memberships Ability to pre-purchase discounted event registrations The Mayor’s Cup is awarded to the corporation with the most number of participants. Division A – More than 1,000 employees Division B – 100-999 employees Division C – Under 100 employees ABOUT DICK’S SPORTING GOODS Founded in 1948, DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc. is a leading omni-channel sporting goods retailer offering an extensive assortment of authentic, high-quality sports equipment, apparel, footwear and accessories. As of January 31, 2015, the Company operated more than 600 DICK’S Sporting Goods locations, serving and inspiring athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to achieve their personal best through a blend of dedicated associates, in-store services and unique specialty shop-inshops. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, DICK’S also owns and operates Golf Galaxy, Field & Stream and True Runner specialty stores. For more information, visit the Press Room at DICKS. com. ABOUT UPMC HEALTH PLAN UPMC Health Plan, headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pa., is among the nation’s fastest-growing health plans. It is owned by UPMC, a world-renowned health care provider. As part of an integrated healthcare delivery system, UPMC Health Plan is committed to providing its members better health, more financial security, and the peace of mind they deserve. UPMC Health Plan partners with UPMC and community network providers to produce a combination of knowledge and expertise that provides the highest quality care at the most affordable price. The UPMC Insurance Services Division – which includes UPMC Health Plan, UPMC WorkPartners, LifeSolutions, UPMC for Life, UPMC for You, UPMC for Kids, Askesis, and Community Care Behavioral Health — offers a full range of group health insurance, Medicare, Special Needs, CHIP, Medical Assistance, behavioral health, employee assistance, and workers’ compensation products and services to nearly 2.5 million members. Our local provider network includes UPMC as well as community providers, totaling more than 125 hospitals and more than 11,500 physicians throughout Pennsylvania and parts of Ohio, West Virginia, and Maryland. For more information, visit www.upmchealthplan.com. 74 75 SPONSORS ABOUT GNC GNC Holdings, Inc.—headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA—is a leading global specialty health, wellness and performance retailer. The Company’s foundation is built on 80 years of superior product quality and innovation. GNC connects customers to their best by offering a premium assortment of vitamins, minerals, herbal supplements, diet, sports nutrition and protein products. As of December 31, 2014, GNC has more than 8,900 locations, of which more than 6,600 retail locations are in the United States (including 1,070 franchise and 2,269 Rite Aid franchise store-within-astore locations) and franchise operations in more than 50 countries. The Company—which is dedicated to helping consumers Live Well—also offers products and product information at GNC.com. ABOUT UPMC SPORTS MEDICINE UPMC Sports Medicine serves as the official sports medicine provider and medical sponsor of the Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, UPMC Health Plan Half Marathon, and is the title sponsor of the UPMC Sports Medicine 5K Run. In addition to being the official medical provider of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins, Panthers, and Passion, we also offer more services, have more physicians, and care for more student-athletes than any other provider in the region. UPMC is ranked nationally for orthopaedic surgery by U.S. News & World Report and our sports medicine experts are recognized worldwide for our expertise in concussion evaluation and treatment, sports nutrition, injury prevention, performance training, and caring for aging athletes. We serve more than 50 local high schools, colleges and other organizations, in addition to individual elite, amateur, and recreational athletes along with active people facing injuries or issues related to physical activity. ABOUT FEDEX GROUND Pittsburgh-based FedEx Ground specializes in cost-effective, small-package ground shipping, offering dependable business-to-business delivery and convenient residential services. With a network of more than 560 distribution hubs and local pickup-and-delivery stations, FedEx Ground employs more than 71,000 people. Its operations are supported by 7,800 independent businesses that pick up, deliver and transport more than 6.5 million packages daily throughout the United States and Canada. Located on Pittsburgh’s South Side, the UPMC Center for Sports Medicine includes doctors’ offices, exam rooms, complete radiology and laboratory services, nutritional counseling, sports massage, and the sports concussion program, as well as a spacious rehabilitation area that includes a therapeutic pool, physical and occupational therapy, athletic training, sports performance training. Opening in August 2015, the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex will serve as a second comprehensive outpatient facility for UPMC Sports Medicine and will be the primary practice and training center for the Pittsburgh Penguins. This first-of-its-kind facility in our area will feature 185,000 square feet of total space, with 54,000 square feet dedicated to UPMC Sports Medicine’s wide range of services. For more information about UPMC Sports Medicine, visit UPMCSportsMedicine.com. To schedule an appointment with one of our sports medicine experts, call 1-855-93-SPORT (77678). 76 ABOUT THE WESTERN PA TOYOTA DEALERS At Toyota, we believe an auto company can also be a vehicle for change. That’s why we support programs focused on environment, education and safety initiatives that help strengthen diverse communities across the U.S.- for today and for the future. We are also proud to partner with nonprofit organizations in the local communities where we live and work. Toyota believes that helping people improve the quality of life in their communities is an important corporate responsibility. The Western PA Toyota Dealers are proud to be a part of the Pittsburgh Community and supporters of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon as well as presenting sponsor for the Toyota of Pittsburgh Kid’s Marathon. 77 ® ® brand DOG FOOD N U T R I T I O N T H AT P E R F O R M S ™ ABOUT PURINA PRO PLAN Inside every good dog is a great dog. Purina Pro Plan is dedicated to helping owners Trusted by professionals and crafted with pride, Purina® Pro Plan® is outstanding nutrition for those who want the absolute best for their dog. Purina® Pro Plan® provides guaranteed nutrition for those who want specialized and great tasting food for their dog. Through continuous research, over 400 scientists, including nutritionists, veterinarians, and behaviorists, deliver advanced canine nutrition year after year. Our wide range of dry and wet foods, snacks and supplement bars can be found in five specialized categories formulated for a dog’s unique needs. For more information or to purchase these products, visit your local PetSmart store or visit www.petsmart.com/proplan. 78 79 DICK’S SPORTING GOODS PITTSBURGH MARATHON 810 RIVER AVENUE, SUITE 120 | PITTSBURGH, PA 15212 PITTSBURGHMARATHON.COM Produced by Pittsburgh Three Rivers Marathon Inc. (P3R) 80