KeyBank Vermont City Marathon Opens Door to 2013 Boston Marathon Participants

On April 15, 2013 more than 5,000 Boston Marathon participants runners were denied the opportunity to finish a race for which they had trained long and hard. KeyBank Vermont City Marathon officials are offering those runners the opportunity to run New England's second largest marathon for free. The race will be held on May 26.

"Our entire community comes together race weekend to create an atmosphere of celebration," said KeyBank Vermont City Marathon race director Peter Delaney. "We're opening our doors to anyone who was unable to finish Boston, so that they can realize the results of their training and continue the healing process."

There are a limited number of slots left in the marathon. Race officials are offering 150 of the remaining spaces to Boston Marathon participants.

The KeyBank Vermont City Marathon is celebrating its 25th edition this year. The event draws 8,000 participants, 1,700 volunteers and 30,000 spectators to downtown Burlington each Memorial Day Weekend.

Boston Marathon participants interested in running the KeyBank Vermont City Marathon can register at www.RunVCM.org with code "BOSTONSTRONG".

KBVCM officials will spread the word about the offer via their social media channels and also through running clubs and their database of runners.

In addition to welcoming Boston runners who were unable to finish, KeyBank Vermont City Marathon officials will honor those affected by the tragedy Boston with a moment of silence at the start of the race. "Sweet Caroline" will also play at the start and all runners and volunteers will receive blue and yellow "Boston Strong" pins.

"Our hearts go out to all those that were affected by the events in Boston, including the runners, spectators, race organizers, volunteers and families," Delaney added. "We hope that running here in Vermont will give participants an opportunity to celebrate an incredible accomplishment and continue their healing."

About the KeyBank Vermont City Marathon:  Celebrating its 25th year, the KeyBank Vermont City Marathon and Relay annually attracts 8,000 participants and an estimated 30,000 spectators. Embraced by the community and supported by over 1,700 volunteers, the KeyBank Vermont City Marathon is a small city race with a big city feel. Learn more at: www.RunVCM.org

About RunVermont:  RunVermont is a not-for-profit business focused on the promotion of a healthy lifestyle. The organization offers competitive and educational programs for adults and children including the KeyBank Vermont City Marathon and Relay, the MVP Health Care YAM Scram , FirstRun, Ready, Set, Run! and the Half Unplugged. For more information, visit: www.runvermont.org.