AIDS Foundation of Chicago Launches
Marathon Training Program
Informational Meetings to Be Held Throughout Chicagoland

This spring, Chicago will debut a new marathon training program that will raise needed funds for HIV/AIDS services throughout the city. The National AIDS Marathon Training Program, produced by Walk-The-Talk Productions, will benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC).

"The National AIDS Marathon Training Program has inspired thousands of people across the country to raise funds and awareness for HIV/AIDS," said Mark Ishaug, AFC executive director. "We brought this program to Chicago because it is unlike any other event held in the area that supports HIV/AIDS services and it's geared specifically toward both beginners and experienced runners alike."

Developed by Olympic athlete and world-renowned marathon trainer Jeff Galloway, the training program combines both running and walking to prepare participants to go the 26.2-mile distance. Program staff and professional coaches will host weekend training runs at five sites throughout the city and suburbs that will also include comprehensive information on nutrition, gear, and exercise. In exchange for the specialized training and support, participants raise funds to benefit prevention and care services funded through the AIDS Foundation of Chicago's grantmaking program.

"For many, running a marathon is the challenge of a lifetime. This program offers a new way for people to get involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS while accomplishing their personal goal of completing a marathon," Ishaug said.

The six-month training program begins April 26, 2003, and allows participants to run either the Chicago Marathon or the Dublin Marathon in Ireland. Informational meetings will be held in various locations throughout the metro-Chicago area. For more details visit www.aidsmarathon.com or call 312-765-0210.

The National AIDS Marathon Training Program was developed by Walk-The-Talk Productions in 1998 to raise money for urgently needed HIV/AIDS services. In the past five years, nearly 11,000 people have successfully completed the training program and raised $35 million for the fight to end HIV/AIDS.

AFC is the Midwest's largest AIDS service organization and Illinois' principal advocate for people living with and at risk for HIV infection. Through its private grantmaking program, AFC supports AIDS prevention, care and advocacy projects throughout metropolitan Chicago. Since 1988, AFC has provided nearly $12 million to agencies working on the frontlines of the HIV epidemic.