AUSTIN MARATHON TITLE SPONSORSHIP SHIFTS FROM AT&T

AUSTIN, TEXAS (September 19, 2008) The 2009 Austin Marathon will bear the name of a new title sponsor as the two-year contract with AT&T has ended. AT&T helped elevate the race to sold-out capacities in both 2007 and 2008 and introduced music and technology elements never before seen in the event.

"Every race or major event experiences title sponsor changes," said Austin Marathon race director and Conley Sports founder, John Conley. "We hate to say goodbye to a great sponsor like AT&T, but we know this gives us an opportunity to bring a new personality into the race, and once again improve our event."

The Austin Marathon event organizers at Conley Sports plan to build on the longtime support of returning sponsors like Seton Family of Hospitals, Coca-Cola, H-E-B and Oroweat, all of whom play critical roles in making the race happen for approximately 12,000 runners and 30,000 spectators each year.

"We're lucky to have a very solid group of long-time sponsors in Seton, Coca-Cola, H-E-B and Oroweat," Conley said. "Their sustained contributions have made the Austin marathon a destination race for runners across the U.S."

Sponsorship discussions are a year-round activity for any event like the marathon. The race can now officially open up those discussions to include title sponsorship consideration. A new title sponsor brings the opportunity for the race to further benefit both participants and spectators.

Since its first race in 1992 with 605 competitors, the Austin Marathon has grown to become the 19th largest in the United States. It is the 10th largest combined marathon and half-marathon event in the country, attracting more than 10,000 runners and 30,000 spectators to Austin each year and generating more than $10 million for the local economy. The goal of the event has always been to organize a world-class marathon that unites the community, brings national attention to the region, promotes health and fitness, and serves as a fundraising engine for both local and national charities. The 2009 Austin Marathon and Half Marathon will be held Feb. 15, 2009. www.austinmarathon.com