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September 20, 2001 - Detroit, MI

Because of heightened security at the Canadian border with Detroit, the Detroit Free Press/Flagstar Bank International Marathon presented by Casino Windsor will be run entirely on American soil for only the second time in its 24-year history.

U.S. and Canadian border officials announced Tuesday that the marathon's route crossing the Canadian border will not be possible because of the newly established border restrictions in the aftermath of last week's attacks in New York and Washington.

With the cooperation and endorsement of Detroit Mayor Dennis Archer and his staff, race organizers will revise the Oct. 21 race course to run entirely within the Detroit city limits. The original course included 20 miles within the city, beginning in front of Detroit's Cobo Center on Washington Avenue.

Mayor Archer issued the following statement in support of the race:

"Because of the importance of the Free Press marathon as a unifying community event on behalf of charities, the city of Detroit will work with the Free Press to extend the marathon course an additional six miles within the city. Our city officials will make these arrangements to make sure that this change results in minimum disruptions to the residents and worshipers in the city."

"I want to thank the mayor and the city of Detroit for helping us preserve this wonderful tradition. The race always spotlights our great city, our fine Canadian neighbors and the giving spirit of all our residents," said Free Press Publisher Heath Meriwether. "We look forward to working with our Canadian friends again next year when the international issues are resolved.

"A new marathon T-shirt, with American and Canadian flags, is being designed to acknowledge the spirit of cooperation between Detroit and Windsor, the U.S. and Canada.

In 1993, the marathon was run entirely on American soil because of repairs to the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, which always has been used in the race course. In 1999, the Ambassador Bridge crossing was added to the course.

The marathon, which in its 24 years has raised more than $1.5 million for the Michigan chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society, also brings together thousands of volunteers to support the expected 3,500 runners, walkers and wheelchair racers who participate in the event.

Maps and details of the new race course will be sent soon to the race participants, organizers said.

The Free Press, Flagstar Bank and Casino Windsor also are working out the details to raise funds during the Oct. 19-21 marathon weekend to support relief efforts for the victims of the terrorist attacks.

The Detroit Free Press is Michigan's oldest and largest daily newspaper.

Source:

The Detroit Free Press, Press Release 9/20/01

Pat Ball, Marathon Race Director

Heath Meriweather, Detroit Free Press Marathon Publisher