Courtesy: event press release

New Balance has signed on as the latest sponsor of the nation's premier winter marathon, the HP Houston Marathon, scheduled for Jan. 16, 2005.

"We are honored to be affiliated with the largest marathon and half marathon in Texas and one of the premier running events in the country. Being an official sponsor to this great event is a logical way for us to reach out to the running community and introduce our innovative footwear and apparel to more athletes," says Brendan Murray, marketing promotions associate at New Balance.

The Boston-based athletic footwear and apparel manufacturer and advocate of running since the 1930s will be the Official Running Shoe Sponsor of HP Houston Marathon. New Balance and its line of running shoes and performance apparel will be visible throughout the event, with a display at the marathon expo, signage, merchandise giveaways and special training seminars at the New Balance Houston store.

"New Balance is one of the most highly regarded companies in the running industry, and we are fortunate to have its support of our event," said Brant Kotch, HP Houston Marathon race director. "It is this type of sponsorship commitment that allows the marathon committee to continually add components to the event and enhance the race experience for all participants."

Registration for the HP Houston Marathon is under way on the HP Houston Marathon Web site at www.hphoustonmarathon.com and its annual kickoff party slated for Monday, Sept. 13 in Memorial Park from 5 to 7 p.m.