In its first 5 years, the Publix Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon has established itself as a premier destination, long distance running event that appeals to elite runners, wheelchair athletes, and everyday runners and walkers. With over 17,000 registered participants in its inaugural year, the event was one of the largest inaugural marathon combo races in history. With equally exciting annual event races, the Publix Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon has become “A True Southern Tradition”.

All 2012 Publix Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon Charity Affiliates will receive guaranteed entry into the Marathon or Half Marathon. Charity Affiliates’ logo and organization description will be included on the Charity Affiliates page. Charity Affiliates will also be eligible to earn race weekend benefits such as a finish line tent or Expo booth.

CHARITY FUNDRAISING

As running and walking experience a major boom in popularity, the concept of running for a cause is also gaining significant attention and growth. The Publix Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon is proud to work with nonprofit groups and appreciates the integral role that charity fundraising plays in drawing new runners and promoting the sport. The opportunity to fundraise through marathons provides a great avenue for charities to cut through the competitive world of fundraising. Cause related running/walking has been taken to extraordinary heights in recent years. For example the London Marathon has 76% of its field taking part to raise money for different charities and has raised over $200 million for charity since 1981. Over 30 charity fundraising groups used the 2011 Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon to raise funds for their causes.

Participants find that the struggles of training and running a marathon relate to those of an individual who is fighting a disease. Participants view themselves as a hero on marathon day when they cross the finish line, having raised money for a cause they feel especially close to. Running has evolved into a sport that encourages completion versus competition. There are many sources of training information to help your charity runner complete the challenge of finishing the marathon or half marathon. The goal is to get them started so they can get going!

Any nonprofit group that raises funds for charity can participate in the Charity Affiliate Program. Sign-up information will be available by contacting dscott@usroadsports.com.

Check out this year's 2012 Charity Affiliates.

LARGE GROUP AFFILIATES

The Publix Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon also welcomes many businesses, training groups, running clubs and other non-fundraising organizations each year and offers a variety of benefits based on the number of participants.

Any non-fundraising organization with a group of 10 or more can participate in the Large Group Affiliate Program. Sign-up information is available by contacting dpuckerin@usroadsports.com.