Tonight is the kick-off for the Norton Sports Health Training Program to prepare runners and walkers for the KDF Marathon and miniMarathon set for Saturday, April 19, 2014.

The free 14-week Norton Sports Health Training Program offers training tips and weekly group runs for participants of all levels of experience. Runners and walkers can register for the training program online at www.derbyfestivalmarathon.com.

The first meeting of the training program will include distribution of a free training packet; free gifts from Norton Sports Health; overview of the Marathon and miniMarathon; introduction of the Norton Sports Health Training Team including orthopedic and primary care physicians specializing in sports health, professional athletic trainers, nutritionists and physical therapists with specialized experience in caring for athletes; and a question-and-answer session for all participants. The 41st annual 13.1-mile miniMarathon and 26.2-mile Marathon start simultaneously at 7:30 a.m. in downtown Louisville.

This is Norton Sports Health’s second year as title sponsor of the Training Program. They are joined by contributing sponsors Swags Sport Shoes and 102.3 The Max.

Since 1956, the Derby Festival has worked to bring the community together in celebration. The Festival is an independent community organization supported by 4,000 volunteers, 400 businesses and civic groups, Pegasus Pin sponsorships and event participation. This involvement has made the Festival the largest single attended event in Kentucky and one of the leading community celebrations in the world.

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For more information, contact:

Derby Festival Press Office at (502) 584-FEST