FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Chris Burch
Des Moines Marathon
515.288.2692

IMT Insurance Sponsors the 2005 Des Moines Marathon

Contrary to a previous announcement the 4th annual Des Moines Marathon will
take place on Sunday, September 18, 2005. The marathon and half marathon
have already attracted national attention as one of the fastest growing
marathons in the United States.

IMT Insurance, located in West Des Moines, Iowa has stepped forward as the
title sponsor and is proud to take the financial lead in support of the
2005 Des Moines IMT Marathon.

WOI TV has also joined the Des Moines Marathon as the official media
sponsor for the 2005 Des Moines Marathon.

A committee of volunteers organizes the Des Moines Marathon each year. The
committee has been recently restructured to strengthen the future of the
marathon. Chris Burch has been named as Executive Director of the event.
"Race Director, Helene Neville, has brought her vision of a 26.2 mile race
to our city and has turned it into an event that everyone can enjoy and be
proud of. Our next step is to solidify this race as a mainstay in the
downtown area.

The Des Moines Marathon has been met with an overwhelming response from
individuals, businesses and civic leaders who realize the importance of
keeping an event like this in Des Moines. We have such a wonderful
community and the marathon is an excellent way to showcase our city to the
world."

The 2004 Des Moines Marathon welcomed 3,500 registered runners in the full
and half marathon. Runners came to Des Moines, Iowa from 47 states, 6
countries and 4 provinces in Canada. The average growth rate for marathons
in the United States is 10%. The Des Moines Marathon boasts a 38% growth
rate. In three short years, the marathon has generated $1.3 million in
economic impact for the Des Moines area.

For 2005 Des Moines Marathon event information, please visit the website at
www.desmoinesmarathon.com.

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