Changes Result in Flatter MCM Course 
The 2013 MCM Course eliminates the 150-foot elevation that had previously occupied Mile 7 by reintroducing Rock Creek Parkway to the event. Runners will now cross the Key Bridge and turn right into Georgetown before an up-and-back on Rock Creek beginning at Mile 6. Mile 18 also features a slightly different approach to the U.S. Capitol by incorporating a brief run along Constitution Avenue. 
Limited Spots at Exciting MCM Weekend Events
For a sneak peak at the MCM finish area, MCM participants can register for the Runners bRUNch on Saturday, Oct. 26. Beginning on the National Mall and concluding at the Marine Corps War Memorial, site of the MCM finish line, the bRUNch is a light 5Kwarm up run followed by brunch in the MCM VIP tent and featured speaker Bart Yasso, Chief Running Officer of Runner's World.  Runners may sign up for the bRUNch beginning in September. Registered and non-registered runners are welcome. All participants will receive a commemorative bib and limited edition MCM coin from Warrior Chip.  Other events going on sale in September include the First Timers Pep Rally on Friday, Oct. 25 and the Runners Conference on Saturday, Oct. 26.  The Conference is free but requires pre-registration.  Topics include "Intro to the MCM" featuring Director Rick Nealis and Final Prep with Jeff Galloway.

Kid Power! Register Young Runners for the Healthy Kids Fun Run
Exploding confetti cannons. Colorful, furry mascots. Healthy snacks. Exciting exhibits. Cheering Marines. And 3,600 determined 5-12 year olds.  The Healthy Kids Fun Run is a one-mile run held the day prior to the MCM, Saturday, Oct. 26 in the Pentagon North parking lot.  School groups are encouraged to coordinate student group participation for a chance to win the Healthy School Award, a $1,000 PE grant provided by Sodexo.
Run in the Cup!  Special Dunkin' Donuts Contest
Dunkin' Donuts, a proud sponsor of the MCM, is making available the unique opportunity for two runners to participate in "The People's Marathon" while wearing the Dunkin' cup costumes.  The lightweight costumes are certain to attract the attention of fellow runners and more than 100,000 spectators lining the MCM course.  Think of the great images you'll be able to post to your Facebook page.  To enter Dunkin' Donuts Run in the Cup Contest for the chance to wear a cup costume and receive a complimentary entry to the 38th MCM, send an email by Aug. 30 to [email protected] detailing why they are the perfect representative to bring the cups to life.  A panel of judges will select the most creative, original and unique entries.  America Runs on Dunkin' and now you can run in Dunkin'!  And remember to look for the Dunkin' Donuts munchkins station on the MCM course at Mile 24.
Clif Pace Team Delivers
Finish the MCM with a smile that's 26.2 miles wide. Sign-up to run with the Clif Bar Pace Team.  They act as a friend, a coach, and a mentor. Runners can also meet the Pace Team at the Health & Fitness Expo presented by GE from Oct. 24-26 at the DC Armory.
World Famous A Capella Group to Sing at MCM Start
America's premier a cappella stylists and the United States' vocal ambassadors to the world, the Liberty Voices will perform the National Anthem during MCM start line ceremonies that also include a skydive to the start, the Marine Corps Base Quantico Ceremonial Platoon, the blast of the Howitzer and more! The Liberty Voices, world-famous, eight-part patriotic a cappella group, have performed for five U.S. presidents. Get into the all-American spirit as part of pre-marathon prep on the eve of the MCM by purchasing tickets to "An American Salute" with Joseph Martin and Liberty Voices at DAR Constitution Hall on Saturday, Oct. 26 at 7:00 PM.  Tickets go on sale Sept. 3.

City Sports Training Runs
Need a training Partner?  Look no further! Get your long run in with City Sports and Brooks! Every Sunday starting September 8th and leading up to the marathon, we'll meet at City Sports Georgetown for a long run. Weekly distance schedule is listed below. All paces and abilities welcome!

Details:
* Distance will increase each week leading up to race day (schedule below) 
* Food and water stops provided 
* safe place to store belongings 
* enter raffles for great prizes 
* learn tips to help you go the distance!

When: Every Sunday at 8:30am starting September 8th 
Where: City Sports Georgetown
Dates: Sept. 8 (16 miles), Sept. 15 (12 miles), Sept. 22 (18 miles), Sept. 29 (14 miles), Oct. 6 (20 miles), Oct. 13 (12 miles), Oct. 20 (8 miles)

Want more info? Keep an eye on www.citysportsblog.com for more details coming soon! 

Train for MCM Uphill Finish
MCM events are well known to the running community for the unique trait of incorporating elevation into the finish. Mile 26 of the MCM includes a 60-foot incline up to the Marine Corps War Memorial finish. Great training run to prepare for MCM is the new Crossroads 4-Miler to be hosted by the MCM at the National Museum of the Marine Corps on Saturday, Sept. 7.  A quick run alongside Marine Corps Base Quantico includes an inspiring tour of the Museum's Semper Fidelis Memorial Park and concludes with the picturesque backdrop of the Museum at the finish.  Plus, all participants receive free event photos.

Lasting Commemoratives Creates Special Art
Runners are invited to sign up to receive a limited edition, free MCM Art Card featuring original thematic design inspired by this year's MCM. Preview the art, sign up for the collector's piece and plan your post-race purchase of a unique commemorative item featuring individual finish results, runner name and vibrant art.