PEORIA, IL - September 4, 2009 -- The Illinois Valley Striders will host the sixth running of the IVS Half Marathon and Relay at 7:45 a.m. on Sunday, September 13. The race starts and finishes in Lower Glen Oak Park adjacent to the Michael Sonnemaker Memorial Sculpture and Garden. The majority of the two-loop course runs through historic Springdale Cemetery. The event features a Half Marathon (13.1 miles) and a two-person relay with categories for Women's, Men's and Co-ed teams along with Family Teams.

Pre-race registration will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Running Central on Saturday, September 12. Running Central is located at 700 West Main Street (corner of Main and Sheridan) in Peoria. Race day registrations will be accepted from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. near the race starting line in Lower Glen Oak Park.

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. For more information visit: www.ivs.org.