Lottery to be held for last 200 Entries

CARMEL, Calif. - (November 14, 2000) - As of today, the 2001 Big Sur International Marathon is officially sold out. This is the earliest the Marathon, voted the best in North America, has ever sold out-a testament to the race's overall and the sport's popularity. But those who failed to sign up for the race early have one more shot. Early next year, marathon officials will hold their first ever lottery, giving 200 hopeful runners one final chance to get in the race.

"We expected the race to sell out early due to on-line registration," said Wally Kastner, Race Director. "Because of this, we held back 200 entries in an effort to give more locals a chance to get in to the Marathon. We hope they take advantage of this opportunity, because it truly is the only way to get into the Marathon for next year's race," Kastner continued.

The lottery will work like this: On January 19, 2001, Marathon officials will draw the names of 200 runners who have sent in their entry forms. Potential runners must send in their entry forms and a check for $75.00 refundable to be eligible for the drawing. Runners must include an additional separate check for $5.00 processing fee (non-refundable) to participate. Entry forms can be obtained by calling the Marathon office at (831) 625-6226. Runners will be notified the week of January 22, 2001 if they have won the lottery. Unlike last year, there will be no waiting list this year! The lottery is the ONLY way for runners who have not already signed up to get into the race.

While the Marathon has sold out, other events are still open, including the five-person Marathon Relay, The PowerWalk, the Walk and the NewsChannel 46 5K. Next year's race will be held on April 29.

Once again the Big Sur International Marathon has been named the Best Marathon in North America by the Ultimate Guide to Marathons. Set along one of the most breathtaking courses in the world, this spectacular road race also gets high marks for its degree of difficulty. Over 3,000 athletes begin this race on Highway One in Big Sur and finish in Carmel at Rio Road. Along the way, runners wind their way through majestic redwoods and Pacific Ocean views. Classical music greets marathoners at each turn, providing inspiration that has been likened to a spiritual experience. Next year's race will be held on Sunday, April 29.

Special thanks to 
Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Coordinator for providing us this press release.
USATF Road Running Information Center
5522 Camino Cerralvo, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
(805) 696-6232, fax (805) 696-6252
http://www.runningusa.org
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