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Peoria, IL – April 3, 2009 -- The Illinois Valley Striders announce the beginning of Building Steam and Team Steam, two nationally-acclaimed training programs focused at preparing local runners and walkers for the Steamboat Classic. The Striders expect over 600 participants in the eleven week programs.

Building Steam focuses on beginning runners and walkers in preparation for the Steamboat Classic 4 Mile Race. It's a proven program that puts participants of similar abilities together with motivated and understanding volunteer coaches. Building Steam starts at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8 at the RiverPlex with weekly sessions each successive Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. The $65.00 entry fee includes Building Steam T-shirt, Training Log, and entry into the 2009 Steamboat Classic Four Mile Race.

Team Steam focuses on experienced runners seeking to improve their performance. It features structured workouts led by coaches Blair Gorsuch and Greg White. Team Steam starts at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14 at the Woodruff High School Track with weekly sessions each successive Tuesday and Thursday at 6:00 p.m. The $65.00 entry fee includes Team Steam Training Shirt and entry into the 2009 Steamboat Classic Four Mile or Fifteen Kilometer Races.

In cooperation with hosting sponsor, Running Central, the Illinois Valley Striders will host a pre-registration day for Building Steam and Team Steam at Running Central on Saturday, April 4 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Running Central is located at 700 West Main Street in Peoria (phone: 309-676-6378).

The 36th running of the STEAMBOAT CLASSIC 4 MILE and 15 KILOMETER RACES will take place on Saturday, June 20, in downtown Peoria. Regarded as the "World's Fastest Four Miles" and "Illinois Toughest 15K", the Striders emphasize that these running events are open to runners and walkers of all ability levels.

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 wellness through running and walking fitness, 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.

Philip Lockwood
Director, Steamboat Classic
(309) 657-2478
phlockwood@yahoo.com

Jim McIntyre
President, Illinois Valley Striders
(309) 698-6300
tri-mac@sbcglobal.net