Storm can't stop Air Force Marathon

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WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFPN) --  Wright-Patterson Air Force Base officials are ready for the 12th annual Air Force Marathon and related activities Sept. 18 through 20 despite widespread power outages and massive amounts of debris from the remnants of Hurricane Ike Sept. 14. 

Base officials said participants should be aware they may encounter some inconvenience during their stay in the area around Dayton, Ohio.

Base officials are asking participants, event volunteers and spectators to plan ahead as they make their way to Marathon events. 

"Especially if coming from outside the Dayton area, it's a good idea to call ahead and check on your lodging, car rental, or any other arrangements just to make sure you're all set," said Molly Louden, the marathon director.

Much of the Dayton area was impacted by the storm. Some neighborhoods remain without electricity. Additionally, Some gas stations either are without gas or are limiting purchases. City and county workers continue to resolve problems and conditions are improving daily.

All hotels in the local area are expected to be open.

A portion of the marathon will traverse the city of Fairborn. City officials report all downtown businesses have power and the community is ready to welcome the runners.

Also, electricity is flowing to the Ervin J. Nutter Center at Wright State University, the site of Sept. 18 and 19's Sports and Fitness Expo and the Marathon 5K Run the evening of Sept. 19. 

"Base clean-up and preparation has been phenomenal," Ms. Louden said. "A lot of people from both on and off the base have worked very hard to get things ready."

"The storm certainly hit us hard, but we're ready and the community is ready," said Col. Bradley Spacy, the 88th Air Base Wing commander. "It's going to be a great event."

Runners will gather for gourmet pasta dinners at the National Museum of the United States Air Force at 5:30 and 7 p.m. Sept. 19. The 5K run begins at 6 p.m. Opening ceremonies for the marathon run are at 7:10 a.m. Sept. 20. 

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