WRIGHT PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- People who are planning to run in the USAF Marathon, or, in any of its associated races, must register by Aug. 15 if they wish to have their first name placed on their runner's bib.
Scheduled for Sept. 19, the USAF Marathon offers a race for everyone. In addition to the 26.2 mile race, there are half-marathon and 10K races. The courses take runners through the historical grounds of Wright-Patterson AFB, downtown city streets of neighboring Fairborn and the campus of Wright State University. Additionally, a 5K race will be run the evening of Sept. 18 on the WSU campus.
Molly Louden, USAF Marathon director, considers having a runner's name on the bib a personal motivator for runners.
"When I'm out there, and I see a runner who is giving it their all, I want to yell, 'Go Joe!' instead of 'Go 1255!' she said. "It's a personal touch that makes a difference to the individual."
Wearing a runner's bib with your name on it is comparable to the catch line of the 1980's sitcom, Cheers, where "everybody knows your name." This might seem like a small detail to some, but, Ms. Louden said, to a runner it means personal encouragement from fellow runners and spectators along the course: It builds camaraderie.
To learn more about the U.S. Air Force Marathon, including volunteer or registration information, visit www.usafmarathon.com .