Courtesy: event press release

Bank of America has been named the official sponsor of the 5- person relay for the 2004 Dallas White Rock Marathon. Proceeds from the marathon events will benefit Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children (TSRHC) in Dallas - one of the nation's leading pediatric centers for the treatment of orthopedic conditions and learning disorders, like dyslexia.

Recognized as one of the top marathons in the United States by Runners' World magazine, the 2004 Dallas White Rock Marathon is expected to draw approximately 10,000 participants and more than 100,000 spectators. As a qualifying event for the Boston Marathon, Dallas' 26.2-mile course winds through residential and commercial neighborhoods, including a nine-mile loop around White Rock Lake.

"Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children is a remarkable organization that dedicates itself to making a difference in the lives of children, families and communities throughout Texas," said Kathleen M. Gibson, president, Bank of America Dallas. "Bank of America has a long history of serving the Dallas area, and we are honored to assist the hospital in fulfilling its commitment to pediatric orthopedic care through an organization, such as the Dallas White Rock Marathon."

Participants of the Bank of America 5-Person Relay teams will run an average of 5.2 miles, with exchange points at the six-, 10-, 15- and 20-mile markers. All members of finishing relay teams will receive a commemorative medal, and each team captain will be provided with an event results book.

In addition to the Bank of America 5-Person Relay, activities this year will include the full marathon, Michelob Ultra "Run the Rock" Half Marathon, Texas Shindig at Eddie Deen's Ranch, Marathon Fitness Expo, the Mayor's 5K Walk and Fun Run, the "Victory Award for Excellence" and Pre-Race Pasta Dinner, and the "I Rocked" Post-Race Party and Awards Banquet. More than 50 entertainment venues will entertain spectators and runners along the racecourse, as well as the start and finish lines.

"We are very excited to have Bank of America as a partner for the 35th running of the Dallas White Rock Marathon," said Chock Bailey, Dallas White Rock Marathon chairman of the board. "Thanks to sponsors like Bank of America, the marathon will continue helping patients and families of Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children."

As the primary beneficiary of the Dallas White Rock Marathon events, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children has provided care for more than 150,000 children without charging a single patient family for care. From 1997 through the end of 2003, the public's support of the Dallas White Rock Marathon has enabled it to generously donate more than $270,000 to TSRHC.