Lafayette will host the inaugural Zydeco Marathon and Half Marathon, a USA Track and Field sanctioned and certified full and half marathon on Sunday March 30, 2014. The Zydeco Marathon serves as a qualifier for the Boston Marathon and other major distance running events.
“We have been anticipating this for more than a year, when the idea to hold Lafayette’s first full marathon came together last February” said co-founder and marketing director Andrew Ward. “As of today, we have over 1600 registered runners from Acadiana and all over the country, including 23 states and Canada and Germany. It’s an honor to be a part of something that will not only bring in new tourism to our area, but continue Lafayette’s reputation as a progressive, forward-thinking community with health and fitness as a priority.”
Ben Berthelot, president and CEO of the Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission (LCVC) added, "We are thrilled to see such a positive response for the inaugural Zydeco Marathon from people all across the world. We look forward to showcasing our food, music, culture and hospitality to all of the runners and their families. This event will only continue to grow and we are grateful to all of the volunteers and sponsors who are helping to make the marathon a reality."
At the completion of the race, there will be a free outdoor concert, labeled the “Finish Line Festival,” held in the University of Louisiana-Lafayette Intramural Fields next to Blackham Coliseum. Local zydeco bands will perform, headlined by Geno Delafose and French Rockin’ Boogie, and local restaurants will be serving up great Lafayette cuisine, including Lagneaux’s, Poupart’s Bakery and Bistro and Charley G’s.
Race proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Acadiana. Online registration information, along with course maps, pre- and post-race festivities and other race details, can be found at zydecomarathon.com.
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