Courtesy: hp houston marathon

Runners in Sunday's hp houston marathon will see some new race benefits thanks to first-time marathon partner Halliburton.

Halliburton, the Houston-based provider of products and services to the petroleum and energy industries, along with Landmark Graphics Corporation, a wholly owned business unit of Halliburton, is supporting several race-weekend programs designed to enhance the race experience for runners and spectators alike.

Top contenders in the hp houston marathon will have an opportunity to compete for a race bonus or "prime" at the halfway mark of the race, which has been dubbed the "Halliburton Halfway Point." The first male and first female to reach the Halliburton Halfway Point and also finish in the top 20 overall will earn a prime of $500.

Halliburton employees will be stationed at the Halliburton Halfway Point, participating in the marathon's Hoopla Brigade cheering festivities. The half-marathon point is located in front of the police station on University Boulevard in West University Place and will be marked with a colorful on-street logo.

"The hp houston marathon is a tradition like no other in our city," said Dave Lesar, Halliburton chairman, president and chief executive officer. "With our corporate headquarters now in Houston, we intend to be an active and supportive member of our new home city."

Along with the Halliburton Halfway Point, Halliburton is sponsoring the pre-race carbo-loading party, race magazine and runner "goodie bag." In addition, Landmark is providing corporate sponsorship of the annual VIP Breakfast Party on race morning.

"Without sponsors like Halliburton, the hp houston marathon simply wouldn't be the world-class caliber event it is today," said Brant Kotch, race director. "We are very fortunate to benefit from such strong corporate support in Houston."

The 2003 hp houston marathon, along with the accompanying ep 13.1 miler and the 24 hour fitness 4 miler, will be held Sunday, Jan. 19.