LAS VEGAS MARATHON ATTRACTS 44,000 RUNNERS!!

Almost twice the number from 2010 -- attracting individual runners, charities and running groups, ranging from professional to novices, all of whom spend big bucks -- an estimated 50 million this year.

"This year, compared to last year, we are looking at a record number of runners "said the senior
research manager for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, which means more economic impact.

Dan Cruz, spokesman for the Las Vegas Rock 'n' Roll marathon, said, "we believe that this can be
one of the largest mass participation events in the world." Participants come from 50 countries,
including 4,000 from Canada.

Rock 'n' Roll operates two training camps in Las Vegas with a coaching program catered to beginners, teaching people to run a marathon from scratch said the President, using three coaches who work as independent.contractors.

Local retailers see customers coming in looking for new running shoes, gloves and nutritional drinks. Besides the runners, more than 75,000 spectators are expected to line the course.

During the race, special options like the running Elvi, run-through weddings and race side entertainment seek to make the Las Vegas Marathon a unique experience for both participants and spectators.

Irv