July 31, 2003
DALLAS - (July 31, 2003) - New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. has teamed up with "The Rock" to be the official shoe sponsor for the 2003 Dallas White Rock Marathon, scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 14, 2003.
The primary beneficiary of the event is Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children (TSRHC) - one of the nation's leading pediatric centers for the treatment of orthopedic conditions, certain related neurological disorders and learning disabilities. As the designated beneficiary since 1998, more than $200,000 has been raised by the Marathon for the hospital. Funds from the 2003 Marathon will assist TSRHC in developing prosthetic limbs for patients who run or participate in sports.
Recognized as one of the top marathons in the United States by Runners' World magazine, the Dallas White Rock Marathon is a qualifying event for the Boston Marathon. The 26.2-mile course winds through Dallas' residential and commercial neighborhoods, including a nine-mile loop around White Rock Lake.
"We are proud to align ourselves with the nationally recognized Dallas White Rock Marathon," said Paul Heffernan, New Balance executive vice president of global marketing. "The event's dedication to the preservation of city landmark White Rock Lake and beneficiary Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children are two worthwhile causes that we applaud and support."
The Marathon has attracted more than 7,000 runners annually to compete in its various races. Expected to be the largest event in its 34-year history, activities this year will include the Marathon, Half-Marathon and Five-Person Relay. More than 40 bands will entertain spectators and runners along the Race course, as well as the start and finish lines. The traditional Pre-race Pasta Dinner and Post-race Awards Banquet festivities also will serve as highlights to the event.
"We are very excited to have New Balance as our official athletic shoe sponsor for this year's Marathon," said Chock Bailey, Dallas White Rock Marathon chairman of the board. "Thanks to companies like New Balance, our friends and supporters, the Marathon can continue helping Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children in its commitment to pediatric orthopedic care."
Race Information
For more information about the Marathon's events or to volunteer, visit the web site at www.runtherock.com or call the hotline at (214) 372-2068.
Hospital Information
Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children is one of the nation's leading pediatric centers for the treatment of orthopedic conditions, certain related neurological disorders and learning disabilities. There is no charge for treatment at the hospital and admission is open to Texas children from birth to 18 years of age. For additional information, to volunteer or to make a donation please call 214-559-5000 or visit the hospital's Web site at www.tsrhc.org.
Sponsor Information
New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc., headquartered in Boston, is a leading manufacturer of technologically innovative width-sized footwear and athletic apparel for women, men, and children. The range of product categories includes running, walking, cross training, basketball, tennis, adventure sports, and kids. Work and hiking boots, sandals, boat shoes, and rugged casuals are also available through the company's Dunham Bootmakers division. Dunham joined the New Balance family in Fall 1998. New Balance acquired the rights to the PF Flyers brand in February 2000. PF Flyers, which became available to consumers in February 2003, is an active casual, lifestyle brand. New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. employs more than 2,400 people around the globe, and in 2002 reported worldwide sales of $1.3 billion. For more information please visit http://www.newbalance.com.
