Air Force Marathon offers best value for runners Published Feb. 15, 2012 WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Despite the incredible growth over the last few years, the Air Force Marathon remains the best value race for runners in the Midwest. Prices for the full and half are $85 and $70, while the 10K and 5K are $40 and $25. "We have agreements with a number of local hotels, so runners can find convenient accommodations for around $100, plus we offer free parking at the Expo and Race" said Molly Louden, marathon director. "You add that to our low registration fees and it is tough to find better value for money." All runners also get a shirt and goodie bag when registering. Everyone who finishes gets a medal that this year features the B-2 Spirit bomber. Each medal is presented at the finish line by a senior Air Force officer. The race is held at the National Museum of the United States Air Force, and runners are treated to military aircraft flyovers throughout the day. Last year all races sold out in June and despite adding 1,500 more spots, another early sellout is predicted. The entire field for all races this year is 15,000 runners. The Air Force Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifying event and the course goes past a number of historic landmarks, including Huffman Prairie where the Wright Brothers perfected manned flight. The Air Force Marathon, presented by Northrop Grumman, USAA and Boeing, will be held Sept. 15, 2012, at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. Participants start and finish at the National Air Force Museum, and spectators are welcome at the museum or in downtown Fairborn. Other events include a half marathon and 10K to be held on Sept.15. The Air Force 5K hosted by Wright State University will be run on Sept. 14 at the Wright State University Nutter Center. The Sports and Fitness Expo will also be held at the Nutter Center on Sept. 13-14. For more information, visit http://www.usafmarathon.com.