Olympic Medalist Deena Kastor Enters World Famous ING Bay to Breakers 12K

SAN FRANCISCO – (April 30, 2009) – Three-time U.S. Olympian Deena Kastor is set to conquer the streets of San Francisco and battle a strong professional field at the 98th ING Bay to Breakers 12K on Sunday, May 17.

Kastor, the 2004 Olympic Marathon bronze medalist, has been on the mend after breaking her foot during the Beijing Olympic Marathon last August. Now completely healed and race ready, Kastor, 36, is set to compete in the ING Bay to Breakers 12K, a distance of which she holds the U.S. record (38:24).

At stake is the opportunity to bring the race title back into the hands of an American, a feat which has not occurred since Lynn Jennings won here in 1993. Despite her 17 national records and 25 national titles, the Mammoth Lakes, Calif. resident will face stiff competition from a tough group of international athletes, as well as her 2008 Olympic teammate, Magdalena Lewy Boulet of nearby Oakland.

"We are exceptionally thrilled to have Deena head the elite field," said Josh Muxen, the race's elite athlete manager. "Deena is always a tough competitor, which will serve her well – taking on defending champ Lineth Chepkurui of Kenya will be no walk in the park."

For more race information, visit: www.INGbaytobreakers.com

Source: Running USA