News Releases
You don't have to be a runner to join in the fun on Sunday, May 4, 2008 during the BMO Bank of Montreal Vancouver Marathon. Spectators of all ages are encouraged to line the marathon course route to cheer on the 13,000 walkers and runners in the Full, Half, Team Relay and XLR 8K marathon events.
Not to be forgotten is the Kids MaraFun which starts and finishes at BC Place Stadium. These kids have run a total of 25.2 miles during the weeks leading up to race day and will run the final mile to complete their “marathon.” The fastest kids are expected to arrive at the line in just under six minutes!
Joining the local BMO Team this year, lead by Richard Rudderham, Senior Vice President, BC & Yukon Division, is Frank Techar, President and Chief Executive Officer of Personal and Commercial Banking at BMO Bank of Montreal.
“This is the third year of our title sponsorship of the BMO Bank of Montreal Marathon and the enthusiastic support of BMO employees both as runners and as volunteers has been phenomenal,” said Mr. Techar. “I felt compelled to join the BMO Team this year, and rain or shine, I'm looking forward to witnessing the warm reception of Vancouverites as they cheer on participants along the Half Marathon route,” he added.
The marathon course starts at 7:00 a.m. for the Half Marathon and at 7:30 a.m. for the Full Marathon from BC Place Stadium. The course winds through some of Vancouver's most scenic neighbourhoods, providing great vantage points for spectators.
Music lovers will want to search out some of the 26 on-course entertainment stations. This year's musicians include a flamenco guitarist and a 25-piece military band.
Excellent viewpoints in Stanley Park include Coal Harbour at the Westin Bayshore, English Bay, and along Beach Avenue. The Burrard Street Bridge is a great location for cheering spectators, as Full Marathoners will cross the bridge twice.
Runners continue along Cornwall Avenue in Point Grey and turn around near 4th Avenue and Alma Street, location of the BMO Candy Corner.
Triumphant BMO Vancouver Marathon participants can be welcomed across the finish line at BC Place Stadium.
Spectators can check out this year's best race viewing spots as well as obtain road closure information by visiting the website, www.bmovanmarathon.ca. They may have to use alternate access routes or park and walk to their destination. All areas of the city remain open for business as usual via major traffic arteries during the marathon.
The 2008 BMO Vancouver Marathon has had unparalleled support from the community for 37 years and is organized by the Vancouver International Marathon Society, a non-profit organization. The Society's mission is to create a world class marathon offering a fast and scenic marathon course, attracting both elite and recreational runners and walkers and engaging the local community in a thrilling recreational and sporting event.
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