Dodge to Sponsor the 2010 Rock'n'Roll Marathon

The Dodge brand announced today it has became the sponsor of the Rock 'n' Roll marathon series in the 2010 and 2011 calendar years. The sponsorship kicks off on September 5, Labor Day weekend, which also marks the 10th anniversary of the Virginia Beach Half Marathon. Some 20,000 marathon runners and walkers are expected to participate.

"Running is a fun, energetic and healthy sport that reflects many of our own brand values," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "This sponsorship gives Dodge an opportunity to connect with our customers one-on-one, not only as a sponsor, but as a participant. Many of our Dodge team members, including myself, are training for the Dodge Rock 'n' Roll Virginia Beach Half Marathon. These runners are living their lives to the fullest, and we're amped to be part of their experience."

The 2010 sponsorship agreement includes Dodge as the 2010 "Official Automotive Partner" and "Official Vehicle" of the Rock 'n' Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon (Sept. 17-19), Rock 'n' Roll Denver Marathon and Half Marathon (Oct. 15-17) and Rock 'n' Roll Los Angeles Half Marathon (Oct. 22-24).

Next year, Dodge will be the title sponsor of the Rock 'n' Roll events in San Diego, Seattle, Virginia Beach, San Jose and Los Angeles.

"With the Dodge Brand's commitment to innovation, extensive dealer network and ability to bring fresh eyes to the industry, we couldn't be more excited to team with them as we present the world's premier series of running events," Peter Englehart, CEO of CGI, said in a release. "Establishing this sponsorship is further evidence that a new era of running is upon us, and we anticipate that this will be a long-lasting and multi-faceted partnership for many years to come."