RUNNING USA – Hartford Marathon Foundation Kicks Off 2011 Events – Variety of 25-plus events; new website launch for Connecticut non-profit

GLASTONBURY, Conn. – (March 6, 2011) – Offering everything from 5Ks, triathlons, half and full marathons and kids events to training clinics for cycling, swimming and running, the Hartford Marathon Foundation (HMF) is gearing up for an eventful 2011 season. Established in 1994 with the mission to motivate people toward active and healthy lifestyles, the Foundation will host and coordinate 25 major events in Connecticut this year in addition to the ING Hartford Marathon, its nationally recognized annual fall event.

With a new website designed to help participants better navigate through events and resources, www.HartfordMarathon.com, HMF hopes to reach and engage more event participants, whether runners, volunteers, sponsors or donors. For those looking to run in their first or 50th event, training resources have been expanded with new groups created in towns including Fairfield, Cheshire and Farmington with the hub of training groups meet in Glastonbury. Training group members receive full training guides, participate in coach-led weekly runs and gain a sense of camaraderie to help reach their goals. Additional clinics such as Cycling Power, Bicycle Fit Testing and various freestyle swimming programs have been created to help triathletes manage their training.

"After a long, snowy winter we're excited to get back outside and help our runners and triathletes prepare for the 2011 season," said Beth Shluger, founder and Executive Director of the Hartford Marathon Foundation. "We provide events and training support for every member of the family and encourage you to take advantage of the many resources we've developed over the years. Whether you're looking for a fun 5K to celebrate the start of the season or hoping to train for your first triathlon or marathon, the Hartford Marathon Foundation welcomes you with training resources, race day support and award-winning post-race parties."

The Foundation will hold an Open House on Sunday, April 3 at the American School for the Deaf from 1:00-3:00pm. Attendees can sign-up for running groups, meet training group coaches and ask questions. Free activities include a mini swim-stroke clinic, various health and wellness exhibitors, guest speakers and a 5K run kicking off at 12:30pm. Registration for all 2011 events will be open and HMF merchandise will be available.

The first events of 2011 will take place on March 19 with the O'Niantic 5K and March 20 with Max's O'Hartford 5K and Wee Mile. For a complete list of events and to register, visit: www.HartfordMarathon.com

The Hartford Marathon Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization founded in 1994 to create and manage fitness events to benefit the local community. Located in Glastonbury, Connecticut, the Hartford Marathon Foundation organizes nearly 30 annual athletic events, including the ING Hartford Marathon.

 RUNNING USA