An informational meeting for individuals interested in training for the 2007 Little Rock Marathon and companion races will be August 8 at 6:30 pm in the Adult Leisure Center, 6401 W. 12th St. in Little Rock according to Little Rock Marathon race organizers.

The Little Rock Marathon training program is a free four-month running/walking program created to prepare individuals who plan to take part in one of the races next March and is a project of Little Rock Parks & Recreation.

In addition to the marathon (26.2 miles) distance, a training schedule is available for the half marathon (13.1 miles), relay half marathon (approximately a 10K), and a 5K. All schedules are available on the training section of the website. A training schedule is also available for the Little Rockers Kids Marathon on the kids marathon section of the website.

The Little Rock Marathon, Half Marathon, Relay Half Marathon, 5K Fun Run/Walk, and Little Rockers Kids Marathon will all be March 4, 2007.

“Our training program is really a year round program,” said Tom Singleton, Head Running Coach of the Little Rock Marathon Training Program. “After the marathon the first year, the group never stopped training.”

“The training schedules are very do-able and are for every level of fitness,” Singleton said. “We had more than 800 people in last year’s program. Our program caters to first time marathoners and first time runners/walkers (meaning they have never run a step).”

“To get people thinking about the marathon, we offer a pre-training program,” said Hobbit Singleton, Head Walking Coach of the Little Rock Marathon Training Program. “The Build Up Program will prepare a person to run or walk a 10K (6.2 miles). The Build Up begins in late August and will last six weeks. The official schedule for the marathon begins October 3 and finishes on marathon day.”

“Finishing a marathon requires remarkable determination,” said Hobbit. “Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned athlete, there is a place for you in the Little Rock Marathon training program. ”

Official training groups are also in Newport, Bryant, and Hot Springs. Individuals interested in starting a group outside of Little Rock are asked to call 501-371-4639 or email ghampton@littlerock.gov for more information.

Registration forms for the 2007 training program and the 2007 Little Rock Marathon (and companion races) are available online at www.littlerockmarathon.com or can be obtained at the Little Rock Marathon office at 501-371-4770.

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