Student Organizations Invited to Compete for $6000 in Grants in 'Cheerathoner' Competition During the Dick's Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon

PITTSBURGH, March 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The sold-out Dick's Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon invites student organizations to serve as "cheerathoners" at various locations along the course on Sunday, May 2, 2010. Information and a race day photo will be posted on the Marathon's website immediately after the winners finish the race, and runners and spectators will vote online for the most enthusiastic group, with grants being awarded to winning organizations. Every organization will receive a Certificate of Participation in recognition of their community service. To register your group, go online to PittsburghMarathon.com and click on the "Neighborhoods and Communities" tab for complete details and a registration form, no later than April 12, 2010.

Race director Patrice Matamoros explains, "Being a cheerathoner is a great way for students to play an important role in a world class sporting event. It also helps the Dick's Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon showcase the spirit and pride of our hometown, as Pittsburgh hosts visiting runners from 47 states, and a dozen countries around the globe."

Any type of organization can enter, and participating groups will be divided into three categories: bands, traditional cheerleaders, and an open division. The open division will be divided by group size, and can include sports teams, special interest clubs and more. A total of at least $6,000 in grants will be awarded to the top three groups in each category.

In addition to Cheerathoners, there are many other opportunities to become involved in the Dick's Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. Volunteers are needed to assist in various aspects of race weekend, ranging from Trib Total Media Pittsburgh Kids Marathon 1-Mile Fun Run, the GNC Live Well Pittsburgh Health & Wellness Expo, and water and aid station volunteers. Music groups are also encouraged to perform along the race course as part of Music by the Mile. For more information on participating, visit www.pittsburghmarathon.com.

SOURCE Dick's Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon