LaSalle Bank Columbus Half Marathon Introduces "Penguin Pride" Campaign

Engaging Community, Creating Excitement on the Course

COLUMBUS, OH (Jan. 22, 2007) – The LaSalle Bank Columbus Half Marathon is introducing the "Penguin Pride" campaign in conjunction with the event on April 14. The Columbus Half Marathon, now in its fifth year, consists of a half marathon, the Commit to be Fit 5K and kids mascot chase.

The objective of the "Penguin Pride" campaign is to engage the central Ohio community as a whole and, specifically, the unique and celebrated Columbus neighborhoods along the racecourse. The half marathon begins and ends in the Arena District and passes through Victorian Village, The Ohio State University District, the Short North, the Discovery District, German Village and the Brewery District along the way.

"We want the racecourse to buzz with excitement, entertainment and fun. There are 5,000 runners and another 10,000 supporters on race day," said David Babner, president of John Bingham Racing. "We know there are great neighborhoods and organizations who simply want to raise awareness for what they do. We want them to come out to the course and do just that."

There is no cost to participate in the "Penguin Pride" campaign. Organizations can be as creative as they choose in having fun and promoting themselves. Music, games, contests, giveaways, food and drink, arts and crafts are just a few ideas for the "Penguin Pride" campaign.

"In road racing, a 'penguin' is the average runner who is more concerned about health and personal achievement in finishing race than he is in finishing first. These runners may be in your own family or certainly you know someone who fits the description," added Babner. The 'pride' is a chance to shine – to show pride in an organization or a part of Columbus. It's chance to showcase central Ohio as a great place to live."

Any individuals or organizations interested in participating in the "Penguin Pride" campaign can contact Stacey Stathulis, at 614-296-6351 or at stacey@johnbingham.com; or Jeff Phillips at 740-412-3408 or at jeff@johnbinghamracing.com.

About John Bingham Racing

John Bingham Racing, LLC is a road race marketing and management company founded in 2002. The Company produces The John Bingham Racing Half Marathon Series and the Corazon Race Series. The Half Marathon Series currently consists of the Arizona Distance Classic in Oro Valley Arizona, The LaSalle Bank Columbus Half Marathon in Columbus Ohio, The LaSalle Bank Chicago Distance Classic and the Run to Victory in Randleman, North Carolina. All JBR events are a celebration of athletes, young and old, fast and slow. Everyone gets a warrior's send off at the start and a hero's welcome at the finish line. And of course the BIG Honkin' PENGUIN Finisher's Medal.

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