MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. -- The Marine Corps Marathon Organization (MCMO) has set sights on bringing the next generation of runners to the start line. This year, the MCMO will engage in the Next Generation Inspiration Initiative, promoting a love of running among youth age 17 and under.
This effort is intended to grow the next generation of runners,” says MCM Director Rick Nealis. “This year, events organized by MCMO will offer runners age 17-and-under on event day a 40 percent discount off registration.”
The discount applies to all events hosted by the MCMO in 2018 from the Marine Corps 17.75K on March 24 to the Turkey Trot 10K on November 17.
“Distance running begins with one step,” said Nealis. “Offering a discount to young runners will help make that first step a little easier.”
Young runners may begin taking advantage of the Next Generation Inspiration Initiative on Wednesday, January 17, when Historic Half Weekend events open for registration. Held on Sunday, May 20, the Semper 5ive is open to runners age 8 and older. The Marine Corps Historic Half will be open to runners at least 10, with the Devil Dog Double open to runners 14-and-older.
Other events welcoming young runners in 2018 include Run Amuck and the new Belleau Wood 8K (4.97 miles) on June 23. The Quantico Tri and Quantico 12K will be held August 25. The annual MCM Kids Run will take place October 27, one day prior to the Marine Corps Marathon and MCM10K on October 28. Completing the year are the Turkey Trot 10K and Turkey Trot Mile on November 17.
“These events have something for every runner to experience,” says Nealis. “The messy, muddy favorite Run Amuck is a three-mile road and trail run through obstacles and mud pits. The MCM Kids Run offers Camp Miles, an interactive fitness and activity areas open to families. Kids also enjoy the petting zoo and cider at the Turkey Trot".
Registration for these events will be available at www.marinemarathon.com.
Honoring the dedication, sportsmanship, and patriotism of its participants, the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) is also known as “The People’s Marathon,” as runners from all walks of life annually participate. The 43rd MCM, coordinated by the Marine Corps Marathon Organization (MCMO) and United States Marine Corps, will be held October 28, 2018 in Arlington, VA. The MCM is sponsored by Arlington County, Brooks, GEICO Military, Leidos and MedStar Sports Medicine. The Marine Corps Installations National Capital Region-Marine Corps Base Quantico (MCINCR-MCBQ) conducts the MCM through a series of events organized around the sport of running, showcasing physical fitness and generating community goodwill in order to promote the high standards and discipline of the Marine Corps. No federal or Marine Corps endorsement is implied. #RunWithTheMarines