FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 13, 2004

Contact: Bernice Pierson
949-293-7085 Or Bernice@...
Or visit www.thecoastalchallenge.com
The Coastal Challenge: Expanding its Reach and Spanning the Ages
International Field Set Their Sights on Costa Rican Expedition Run
Santa Monica, CA (Dec. 13, 2004) - The Coastal Challenge Expedition Run has drawn the attention of an international community of athletes who are now making preparations for their 250 kilometer journey down the Pacific shoreline of Costa Rica in January.

With its emphasis on adventure and self discovery, The Coastal Challenge has attracted a diverse field that is refreshingly broad in terms of age and background. Athletes representing at least ten different countries like South Africa, United Kingdom, Ecuador, Canada, and more are currently registered. The Coastal Challenge is excited to announce that participants from as far away as Hungary and Taiwan are working on sponsorship opportunities to compete in this inaugural event. Further enticing athletes is the $20,000 prize purse, the largest cash prize of any sporting event in Costa Rica's history.

Competitors range in age with the youngest at 20 and the eldest at 67 years old. At 67, Jay Norman is going to run longer than he ever has run before. When asked what he thinks about being the oldest competitor, Norman responded, “I’m just going out to have an exciting, fun experience. I’m motivated to finish because I’m using my efforts as a vehicle to help raise money for the Optimist Club Kids’ Programs.”

At age 20, Rory Fuerst is the youngest competitor in the event. Fuerst’s motivation is simple and his outlook is positive. He says, “I am certain the race will be awesome and it will definitely be a challenge. What better way to challenge myself then running through Costa Rica for 7 days?”

Each day the Expedition Run will test each competitor’s will and stamina. Each afternoon they will recover, relax and reenergize at a unique locale. Race Director Tim Holmstrom says it best. "This is a running retreat that is no day at the spa. His advice to athletes is, “Leave the facial peels, body wraps and mineral baths to the people obsessing over their carbs and come take on a true adventure at The Coastal Challenge."

You can check out more information at http://www.thecoastalchallenge.com

"Take on the distance...Take on the elements...Take on the adventure..."

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