AKRON (Feb. 5, 2015) — Goodyear will serve as the presenting sponsor for a half marathon and 10k event to be held in August as part of the new Akron Marathon Rubber City Race Series.
Akron Marathon Charitable Corp. said the Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k on Aug. 15 will start and finish at the company's global headquarters in Akron. The race course will include local landmarks such as the city's East End development, Derby Downs and the Lockheed Martin Airdock, and also will feature a lap around the track at tire maker's restricted access Akron Proving Grounds.
“Goodyear has maintained a strong community presence for more than a century and played an instrumental role in establishing Akron as the rubber capital of the world,” said Anne Bitong, Akron Marathon president/executive director. “Having Goodyear participate in the inaugural year of the Rubber City Race Series is very meaningful for our organization, and we are thrilled to be able to offer our runners the amazing experience of taking a lap around Goodyear's test track.”
All participants in the Goodyear event will receive race premiums for which the Akron Marathon has long been known, including a tech shirt and finisher's medal. Half marathon runners also will get a commemorative gift. The finish line will feature an “Akron's Best” food festival open to participants, volunteers and spectators.
Alison White, Goodyear director of community engagement, said the company is “delighted to join forces with the Akron Marathon as it introduces two new race events this year that will build on the success of its annual fall marathon.
“The Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k is a terrific opportunity to welcome the community to our campus and to involve our Goodyear associates as race participants and volunteers.”
Registration for all three Rubber City Race Series events opened in November with incentives geared toward running multiple events. The entry fee is $75 for the Half Marathon and $55 for the 10k, with roughly 3,000 spots available between the two events, according to promoters. Registration is available on the series' website.
Race dates for the inaugural running of the series are: June 27 (8k & 1-mile); Aug. 15 (Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k); and Sept. 26 (Full Marathon, Half Marathon, Team Relay & Kids Fun Run).
Akron Marathon Charitable Corp. is a non-profit group founded in 2002 “to provide a world-class marathon and other events that promote health and fitness, stimulate the local economy, galvanize the community and benefit charitable organizations.”