NEWS RELEASE Vancouver’s only marathon has reached the 5,000 runner cap for the third year in a row Runners from over 46 countries have signed up to take part in the three events at the 2014 BMO Vancouver Marathon Vancouver, BC – April 3, 2014 – With over a month to go, Vancouver’s only marathon has sold out with the maximum amount of runners reached for the 2014 race. The BMO Vancouver Marathon has achieved peak registration numbers for the marathon since 2012, when the course was re-designed to reflect runner, stakeholder and sponsor feedback. In order to create a world-class experience for runners and spectators, the courses were restructured to showcase the city’s renowned waterfronts, landmarks and coastal mountains. Marathon runners can still participate by running on behalf of a National or Official charity. Guaranteed entry is available for marathon runners until April 18th through the Run4Hope program. In addition, marathon runners can add their names to the waitlist, and will be assigned spots as they become available. Event organizers also announced an extension to the registration deadline for the Half Marathon and 8KM races until these events sell out at 10,000 and 2,000 respectively. Registration in these events is very strong, ahead of previous years, and runners are encouraged to sign up Quickly to secure their spot. Since 2012, the marathon event has remained very consistent with 57% male and 43% female participants. In the past three years, the marathon has had over 63 citizenships represented, with this year bringing the largest number of international marathon runners since 2012. Statistics from previous years show that the top six countries consistently represented in the marathon event are: Canada, U.S, Japan, U.K, Mexico and Germany. With the coveted recognition again from Forbes Magazine in January, ranking the BMO Vancouver Marathon as one of the world’s best marathon locations for 2014, the scenic courses have continued to spark an incredible interest in both local and international runners. The course leads runners through 12 unique neighbourhoods, showcasing panoramic views with snow-capped mountains, cherry blossom trees, 70% course shoreline, and famous Stanley Park. With 30 bands on course, motivating runners to a downtown finish in the heart of the city, participants are able to reconnect with friends and family at the Street Festival located on West Hastings. “We are delighted to receive such great support from runners again this year,” says Charlene Krepiakevich, Executive Director of the Vancouver International Marathon Society, the non- profit organization responsible for the BMO Vancouver Marathon. “The Vancouver International Marathon has a 43 year legacy in Vancouver and an incredible amount of community support. We are expecting about 17,000 registered runners, and 92,000 spectators during marathon weekend. In addition, 4,000 volunteers will cheer and help throughout the event.” About The Vancouver International Marathon Society The Vancouver International Marathon Society is the non-profit organization responsible for the BMO Vancouver Marathon. The event is one of Canada’s largest marathons and has a 43- year history within Vancouver and the running community internationally. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Half Marathon. The event will take place on May 4, 2014, featuring the three point-to-point courses, showcasing the city’s famous landmarks, shorelines and neighborhoods. The Health, Sports and Lifestyle Expo will take place during Marathon weekend on May 1-3. The 2014 events remain capped at 5,000 for the Marathon, 10,000 for the Half-Marathon, 2,000 for the 8km, 500 for 8km Teen Challenge and 250 for the Kids 1-Mile Fun run participants. For more information and how to register visit: www.bmovanmarathon.ca For more information about the Vancouver International Marathon Society visit: www.runvan.org About BMO BMO Bank of Montreal is proud to be in its ninth year as title sponsor of the BMO Vancouver Marathon. BMO supports the running community through sponsorship of marathon events throughout North America - in Vancouver, Kelowna, Charlottetown, Phoenix, Arizona, and Milwaukee and Madison, Wisconsin. BMO’s long and proud history of supporting sports and fitness in Canada reflect some of our most deeply held corporate values, such as contributing positively to a healthy Quality of life in the community and promoting the achievements of people, regardless of age or ability. Media Contacts: Charlene Krepiakevich, Executive Director, Vancouver International Marathon Society, Office: 604-872-2928, Cell: 604-374-8999, [email protected] Laurie Grant, BMO Media Relations, 604-665-7596, [email protected] Facebook: BMO Vancouver Marathon, Twitter: @BMOVanMarathon, Web: www.bmovanmarathon.ca Facebook: Vancouver International Marathon Society .