For the past three years, Decatur’s “official” cheering station for the ING marathon – i.e. the one that could win prize-money – was in front of Fellini’s on Commerce Drive.  But according to this year’s info, the station has been moved up into the heart of the city along Ponce in front of the Old Courthouse.

From 231 Sycamore…

New Cheering Section will be held on the square The ING Georgia Marathon will come through our city on Sunday, March 21, and Decatur invites you to participate as a hydration and/or cheering volunteer. As the marathon organizers say, “Volunteers are the heart and SOLE of the marathon.”

Hydration Station Volunteers

Volunteers are needed to staff two Hydration Stations, one at the East Lake MARTA station and one in downtown Decatur. Your duties will be to hand out water to the runners and to cheer them on. To volunteer for the Hydration Stations go to www.doitsports.com/volunteer/join-protected-group.tcl?event_id=174848.

This year’s “Neighborhood Awards” are less money than in previous years, but still nothing to sneeze at:  $3,000 for first place, $2,000 for second and $1,000 for third. (Decatur won $10,000 for first place back in 2007 and $5,000 for second place in 2008).

Can’t make it to the official cheering station but still want to show your support?  Cheer for runners all along this year’s course.  Here’s the official map.(pdf).