FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Des Moines Marathon
Helene Neville, Executive Director
(515) 288-2692
www.DesMoinesMarathon.com

DES MOINES MARATHON EXPLAINS DISQUALIFICATION
OF RUNNER UNDER USATF GUIDELINES

In the inaugural marathon (2002), Marty Dalton, the second place finisher
was disqualified. As a registered elite runner who received a waived entry,
he accepted aid from an unregistered runner and an unregistered bicyclist.

Before the legal two year date of expiration, I have been notified that he
has chosen to reverse his decision to dismiss his suit against the Des
Moines Marathon.

The 2002 race was governed according to USATF rules. Such assistance is
illegal if the runner is seeking to place and win prize money.

Marathons actively recruit pacing teams; however, every member of a pacing
team must be registered. According to the rules of long distance running,
the final decision is made by the race director.

Since the Des Moines Marathon recognizes and adheres to the rules of long
distance running, his admitted acceptance of illegal aid automatically
disqualified Mr. Dalton from receiving prize money and placement.

In an unprecedented two year time frame, the Des Moines Marathon has
brought to the community, travel and tourism dollars which substantially
impacts the cities hotel/motel tax. The community as a whole has benefited
from this annual event.

"I regret that this matter has not been satisfactorily resolved, and I
regret even more so that this incident occurred. It questions and
challenges the integrity of the sport of long distance running in general
and the Des Moines Marathon in particular". Helene Neville, Executive
Director.

"A major mission of this annual event is to encourage awareness and
appreciation of our city and state. The events demographics, positively
demonstrates its continual success. Despite these repeated peripheral
distractions, our enthusiasm for Des Moines and its marathon remains
constant and strong". Helene Neville

The Des Moines Marathon, Half Marathon, Kid’s Run and expo will take place
the weekend of October 15-17, 2004. Check the web site for all your race
weekend information. Currently, there are 32 states and four countries
represented. Participation is presently up 30% from last
year. www.DesMoinesMarathon.com.

I look forward to seeing you race weekend.

Helene Neville, Executive Director

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