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Story by Philip Lockwood Director Steamboat Classic

PEORIA, ILLINOIS – August 15, 2008 – The Steamboat Classic recognizes the fourteen (14) “alumni” participating in the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing, China. The list of alumni includes four (4) former Steamboat Classic Champions: Constantina Dita, Romania (2003 & 2005); Lornah Kiplagat, The Netherlands (2001 & 2006); Brian Sell, USA (2005 – 15 Km); and Kim Smith, New Zealand (2008).

“We’ve always maintained the Steamboat Classic is the highest caliber sporting event in Central Illinois,” says Glenn Latimer, Steamboat Classic Elite Athlete Coordinator. “The fact that 14 Steamboat Alumni - representing 10 different countries - will participate in the Track & Field Competition at the Beijing Olympic Games, reinforces this point.”

The Steamboat Classic is the cornerstone running event of the Illinois Valley Striders (IVS). With a membership of over 1,000 members, the IVS mission is to promote running/walking fitness as a life sport while striving to enhance the community. IVS serves its members, the running community, and the community at large through its active involvement in programs, events and organizations/issues that satisfy this mission. Proceeds from the Steamboat Classic entry fees are used to support IVS programs and events year-round.