Sixth Annual Magnificent Mile Race Set for September 18

RALEIGH, N.C. (August 9, 2011) — Celebrating its sixth anniversary, The Magnificent Mile Race^SM (www.magmilerace.com) will take place on Sunday, September 18, 2011. The fundraising event includes competitive, recreational and kids’ races, as well as a street festival with family friendly activities, food and prizes. Proceeds benefit the Spastic Paraplegia Foundation and help fund research grants awarded to find a cure for upper motor neuron diseases.

Notable sports, entertainment and business personalities are once again lending their influence. For a third consecutive year, Charlie Slagle, Capital Area Soccer League CEO and host of the Back of the Net radio program, is challenging CASL members, coaches and parents to “Beat the Old Man.” The top five CASL males and the top five CASL females will receive prizes. Debra Morgan of WRAL will be emceeing the event. In addition, Dr. Richard Bedlack of Duke University will be on hand to discuss the latest research developments in the area of motor neuron disease.

“We are thankful to the more than 3,600 people who have participated in the event during our first five years,” says Sarah Roberts-Witt, co-founder of The Magnificent Mile Race. “Their continued support has helped us raise more than $200,000 to fund research into motor neuron disease.”

New this year, competitive racers, who are 15 years or older, have the option to purchase a moisture-wicking tech shirt when signing up for the race. All other race participants will receive a commemorative cotton race t-shirt.

2011 registration prices are:

• Competitive mile (ages 15 and older) – $20 until 9/1/11; $25 after
• Competitive mile (ages 15 and older with tech shirt) – $28 until 9/1/11; $33 after
• Competitive mile (ages 14 and younger) – $10
• Recreational mile (ages 15 and older) $15 until 9/1/11; $20 after
• Recreational mile (ages 14 and younger) $10
• Kids’ race – $10

Online registration is available at http://tinyurl.com/2011MagMileRace.

The Magnificent Mile Race is the first of the eight-race 2011 Second Empire Grand-Prix Fall Series, and is part of the NC-USATF – Endurance Magazine 2011 Long Distance Running Championship Series. It also serves as the NC-USATF one-mile championship. Visit www.magmilerace.com for more information.

About The Magnificent Mile:
Sarah Roberts-Witt, co-founder and inspiration behind The Magnificent Mile Race, was an avid runner and marathoner until developing primary lateral sclerosis in 2004. She is now confined to a wheelchair and has difficulty speaking, but the disease hasn’t stopped her. Since her diagnosis, she has dedicated her time to raising awareness of motor neuron diseases and fund-raising. This race combines her love of running with her desire to find a cure for motor neuron disease. The Magnificent Mile Race events have raised more than $200,000 to fund research grants awarded by the Spastic Paraplegia Foundation to help find a cure for motor neuron disease. Visit www.magmilerace.com.