Visit From Pope Francis Will Push Rock ‘N’ Roll Philadelphia Marathon Back To Saturday, October 31st
Press Release
February 24, 2015
Philadelphia, PA – For 38 years the AACR Rock ‘n’ Roll Philadelphia has traditionally taken place the third Sunday in September. This year, to accommodate Pope Francis’ first visit to the U.S., the historic road race will take place on Saturday, October 31. The race is offering a special $55 entry to the first 1,000 participants who register on Thursday.
“We are happy that all parties agreed upon a date to hold this historic event,” said Josh Furlow, Executive Vice President of Global Events for the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series. “We have been in constant communication and cooperation with the City of Philadelphia, Parks & Recreation and all other involved agencies to secure an amiable race date for 2015.”
Also new this year is the addition of a title partner, the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), the first and largest scientific organization in the world focused on cancer research. Through its programs and services, the AACR fosters research in cancer and related biomedical science. The organization accelerates the dissemination of new research findings among scientists and others dedicated to the conquest of cancer. The AACR also promotes science education and training; and advances the understanding of cancer etiology, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment throughout the world.
“We are honored to collaborate with such a long-standing, world-class road race in our own hometown,” said Mitch Stoller, Executive Director of the American Association for Cancer Research Foundation. “It is our mission to prevent and cure cancer through research, education, communication, and collaboration. We couldn’t think of a better partner than the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series, and its base of health-centric participants and spectators, to all beat cancer together.”
“With its groundbreaking research and commitment to prevention and healthy, active living, the American Association for Cancer Research is the perfect partner for the 2015 Rock ‘n’ Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon,” said Dave Hussa, Vice President of Charity Partnerships. “We are excited to be in a position to assist the organization in furthering its mission to accelerate research and end cancer for future generations.”
Runners will once again start at Benjamin Franklin Parkway, surrounded by stunning views of the city skyline, run through the historical Center City and along the scenic Schuylkill River before finishing at Eakins Oval near the Philadelphia Art Museum. An official course will be announced at a later date.
Throughout the flat, fast course, participants will once again be greeted by the sounds of live, local bands, motivating cheerleaders and encouraging spectators. After crossing the finish line, participants are invited to join family and friends to kick back, relax and enjoy the headliner concert at the finish line festival.
Event weekend kicks off with a free Health & Fitness Expo at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on Thursday, Oct. 29 and Friday, Oct. 30. Exhibitors will offer free samples, showcase the latest in running gear, sports apparel, health and nutritional information and much more. The Expo is free and open to the public and all runners must visit the Expo to pick up their bib.
Registration and information are available at RunRocknRoll.com/Philadelphia.
About the American Association for Cancer Research Rock ‘n’ Roll Philadelphia
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Rock ‘n’ Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2015. One of the world’s most prestigious road races, the AACR Rock ‘n’ Roll Philadelphia is the home of five World Records, five American records and the current men’s and women’s U.S. all-comers’ records. The race will feature live bands and entertainment along the course, with a beer garden and concert at the finish line.