The first ever Pocono Mountain Marathon happens in One Month!!!

May 7, 2006 is quickly approaching. Hundreds of runners have already signed up to take part in this premier marathon event. The race happens exactly one month from today! Distance runners from 17 states and even Canada are registered for the Pocono Mountain Run for the Red Marathon. The officially certified 26.2-mile marathon course will traverse through some of the most beautiful scenery in Pennsylvania.  

For the next month, race organizers will be hard at work finalizing all the details to ensure all aspects of marathon weekend are a success. A variety of special events are planned including LIVE performances from the Monroe County High School Bands, a Pasta Party on May 6^th, and lots of food and entertainment at the Stroudsburg High School stadium as the runners complete the race.  

Race Executive Director Bob Werts said, �We have many great people who are donating their time and talents to help put this event together. However we could still use more volunteers to help man water stations and cover the important tasks necessary for an event of this size.�  Volunteers and civic organizations are encouraged to get involved. Anyone who would like more information can check out the website www.poconomarathon.org and click on the Volunteer link to find out about the different types of volunteer responsibilities.  

Race day will also include a Run for the Red � 5K Road Race. Dozens of runners have already signed up for this competitive shorter distance run. The 5K race will start and finish at the Stroudsburg High School Stadium. It is the perfect opportunity for runners interested in a shorter distance to enjoy the race day experience and support the local American Red Cross. 

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Pocono Mountains Run for the Red Marathon

Background Information 

The Pocono Mountain Run for the Red Marathon begins at 8am at the Clear Run Elementary School on Route 611 in Coolbaugh Township (Near Tobyhanna).  The course then travels through Mt. Pocono onto PA Routes 940 and 191 through Paradise Valley, Henryville, Analomink, and eventually into Stroudsburg, ending at the Stroudsburg High School stadium.  The fast course was designed by experienced marathon runners and includes a drop in elevation of nearly 1000 feet. Check out the website for course details and elevation chart - www.poconomarathon.org 

The Pocono Mountain Run for the Red Marathon will benefit the Monroe County Chapter of the American Red Cross.  All funds received will go directly to the local chapter�s disaster relief efforts.  

Registration is simple, and can be accessed through the website www.poconomarathon.org or by visiting Active.com. Runners can expect great results with accurate chip timing. The top three finishing males and top three finishing females will receive cash prizes. $1000 for 1^st place, $500 for 2^nd place and $250 for third place. All runners who finish the marathon will receive a medal and high quality souvenir long sleeve shirt, as well as a �Goody Bag� stuffed with great items. 

The Pocono Mountain Run for the Red Marathon is a huge undertaking for the local American Red Cross of Monroe County and volunteers are needed. Martha LaBar, Executive Director for the American Red Cross of Monroe County said, �This event will be a tremendous help for our disaster relief program, and I hope many people will come out to run and to volunteer to help!� 

Anyone wishing to volunteer or find out more about sponsorship opportunities should contact the Red Cross of Monroe County at 570-476-3800. 

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