Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico - Preparation is the key to success, which is why the Fourth Annual Riviera Nayarit Touristic Half Marathon organizers are already revving up the engines to attract a larger number of athletes and create a better event for those who wish to compete in the November 17 race.

Since the creation of the Riviera Nayarit brand five years ago, a priority has been to attract high quality tourism that poses a low environmental impact. This isn't just a marketing issue, but a strategy to achieve an integral development of the community and to increase not only the raw economic indexes, but also the well being of the society as a whole - and high performance sports are a key niche to achieve this goal.

The momentum that Riviera Nayarit is gaining through events like the Touristic Half Marathon, which is promoted by the Convention and Visitors Bureau, allows Mexico's Pacific Treasure to attract tourists and specialized media that cover these type of events.

Event organizers already have the support of the Mexican Athletics Federation, and of the Athletics Association of Nayarit, which is endorsed by AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races). Mexican and international runners are now invited to participate in the fourth edition of the Touristic Half Marathon of Riviera Nayarit, which will take place on the main avenues of the Nuevo Vallarta touristic development.

Scenic Route

Extraordinary natural landscapes, golf courses, a marina, hotels, ocean views and 6.2 miles of navigable channels comprise the route that awaits runners, amidst an ambiance that combines festivities, camaraderie and sports.

The formula to organize this half marathon has been the following: to bring together the experience of top organizers; to choose an amazing place with first-class lodging and infrastructure, impeccable streets and exuberant beauty; to secure the endorsement from the FMA and the State's Athletics Association to guarantee the support of all pertaining authorities; and to obtain AIMS certification to give the event an international scope.

In previous years, Riviera Nayarit even caught the eye of the AIMS representatives that measured the route, who stated that in the more than 150 destinations that they've worked in, they hadn't had an experience like the one that this route offers.

Everybody Run!

Riviera Nayarit has extended invitations to national and international elite runners to participate in this event alongside our local runners and visiting tourists. There are two categories available for participants: 21k and 10k. You can register online at DelCorredor.com or MedioMaratonRivieraNayarit.com. and pay by credit card or electronic transfer. You can also register at all MisterTenis stores; during the Leon, Tangamanga or Guadalajara Atlas marathons; or on the day before the race at the registration table.

The entry fee for either race is $450 pesos. Upon registration, runners will enjoy the following benefits:

• Welcome lunch on Friday, November 16
• Official event T-shirt
• Commemorative medal to everyone who finishes the race satisfactorily
• Time tracking at kilometer 10 and at the finish line, with the "Time Ipico-sports" system
• Water and electrolyte supply along the race
• Snack at the recovery area
• Awards Brunch on Saturday, November 17
• Official results published on the Internet website, starting at 13:00 hrs
• Free photo downloads at DelCorredor.com
• Official time record

What are you waiting for, get out and start training!

Visit MedioMaratonRivieraNayarit.com for complete details and registration.