Grandma's Introduces Tracking Feature

Grandma's Marathon, which implemented on-line registration for the first time this year, continues to embrace modern technology.

Race officials announced today that they will implement an automated runner-tracking system which will allow fans of inidividual runners in the 2008 Grandma’s Marathon and Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon to keep tabs on their racers in real time. Interested fans will be able to receive periodic runner updates through text messages or e-mails on the progress of individuals in the June 21 events.

The updates, made possible by event sponsor Verizon Wireless, will be available for all participants running in the two events. The introduction of the technology is a joint effort between Grandma’s Marathon, Verizon Wireless, ChampionChip Minnesota, and MarathonGuide.com.

"This tracking technology is going to be a wonderful addition for our race fans," Grandma's executive director Scott Keenan said in a media release. "Having access to runner updates in virtually real-time is a great way to keep an eye on the progress of a particular runner. We are extremely excited to showcase this unique program."

Interested race-watchers will be able to sign up for the service starting May 26 via the Grandma's Marathon web-site.

Verizon Wireless will also be the presenting sponsor of the Grandma's results' tent where runners will be able to look up their results upon finishing and print a receipt that contains their splits and finishing time.