Army Ten-Miler Increases Registration Field to 30,000

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Posted Thursday, 26 February, 2009

From Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Director

WASHINGTON, DC - (February 19, 2009) - The Army Ten-Miler, the country's second largest 10 mile, has increased its field to a race high 30,000 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the race set for Sunday, Oct. 4. Registration will open on Wednesday, April 1 at ArmyTenMiler.com.

Despite the increased runner field, the race is expected to sell out by mid-May and runners are encouraged to sign-up early to assure entry. More than 700 teams are expected to compete in this year's race and soldier teams will be allowed to pre-pay for entries again when they register their team name. Race officials also confirmed that they will use a wave start again to release runners for this year's Army Ten-Miler.

"Over the years, we have been able to incrementally increase the runner field and maintain a safe, competitive race," said Jim Vandak, race director. "Since the 2008 race sold out in a record 21 days, we looked at the logistics and felt that we could incrementally increase participation in this year's 25th anniversary race."

The expanded size of the race has led to other changes as well. The free, two-day expo preceding the race will move to the DC Armory enabling twice the number of exhibitors and longer packet pick-up hours for runners. The GEICO pasta dinner on Saturday, Oct. 3 will move to a larger ballroom at the Gateway Crystal Marriott thereby adding an additional 300 seats.

Military culture is infused throughout the Army's race beginning with the opening ceremonies which include Blackhawk flyovers and the Golden Knights parachute team; Missing Parts in Action Team (military amputee runners); soldier volunteers and the finishers' coins. The Army Ten-Miler provides a venue for military and civilians to compete for top awards in over 27 division and show support for all our nation's men and women in uniform.

This unique road race has both its start and finish lines at the Pentagon. Race weekend activities include a two-day race expo, fitness clinics, youth runs, post-race party and HOOAH tents from Army installations around the world. The ATM is produced U.S. Army Military District of Washington (MDW), with proceeds benefiting Army Morale, Welfare and Recreation, a comprehensive network of support and leisure services designed to enhance the lives of Soldiers and their families. The mission of the Army Ten-Miler is to promote the Army, build esprit de corps, support fitness goals and enhance community relations. For more information about this prestigious race, visit: ArmyTenMiler.com