Courtesy: event press release

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) announced today that AT&T Texas will be the title sponsor of the 2007 AT&T Austin Marathon. The sponsorship reinforces AT&T's role as a strong corporate citizen by furthering its commitment to the city of Austin and its residents.

Since its conception in 1992, the marathon has grown to become the 15th-largest in the United States, attracting more than 10,000 runners and 50,000 spectators to the city of Austin and generating more than $5.5 million for the local economy. Because of its growth, the Austin Marathon Foundation, a nonprofit corporation, was formed in July 2005 with the mission and goal of organizing a world-class marathon that unites the community, brings national attention to the region, promotes health and fitness, and benefits both local and national charities.

"This new sponsorship allows us to take the Austin Marathon to a new level that will completely redefine our runners' experience," said John Conley, who has served as executive director of the Austin Marathon for 10 years. "The Austin Marathon has grown steadily each year, and bringing strong corporate sponsors like AT&T Texas to the event ensures that growth and innovation remain hallmarks of the marathon."

According to Paul Carrozza, founder and chairman of the board of the Austin Marathon Foundation, the race has generated tremendous loyalty, transcending sponsorship boundaries. "Many community sponsors will remain, and we will continue to build on the tremendous momentum that we have generated in the community."

With nearly 3,000 employees and retirees who live and work in the Austin community, AT&T has a strong presence and looks to expand its reach through its sponsorship of the run. In 2005 alone, AT&T's local and corporate employee groups, including the AT&T Pioneers and the AT&T Foundation, combined to donate more than 400,000 hours and nearly $1.9 million to Austin-based charities and organizations, including the Texas Book Festival, YMCA of Austin, Communities in Schools, Austin Public Library and the American Diabetes Association's "Tour de Cure" cycling event.

"The Austin Marathon has always brought an atmosphere of excitement and community involvement to the city," said Brooks McCorcle, AT&T vice president and general manager for Austin and southwestern Texas. "We look forward to events like this because they, in many ways, encompass what AT&T stands for -- connecting families, friends and neighbors."

Mayor Will Wynn is especially pleased about the ongoing success of the marathon, saying, "Austin is proud of its Marathon and we welcome AT&T Texas as a new sponsor. Part of the magic of Austin is that so many of our citizens use the marathon as a way to stay in shape year round. We are looking forward to next year's race and encourage more Austinites to participate in this great Austin event."

The 2007 AT&T Austin Marathon and Half Marathon will be held Feb. 18. For more information and registration information, call (512) 478-4265.