HCA Virginia Health System New Title Sponsor of 8k

HCA Virginia 8k, companion race to the SunTrust Richmond Marathon, takes place on November 14

Richmond, VA, June 4, 2009 – HCA Virginia Health System, the Commonwealth’s largest and most comprehensive healthcare provider, will be the new title sponsor of the HCA Virginia 8k set for November 14, the Sports Backers announced today. The event was formerly known as the NTELOS 8k.

“At HCA Virginia Health System, our goal is to put patients first,” said Margaret G. Lewis, Senior Executive of HCA Virginia.  “The 8k is a fantastic way for walkers and runners of all levels to take charge of their health, while participating in a Richmond tradition.  The Sports Backers’ commitment to Richmond and to the wellness of our community makes them an ideal partner for HCA Virginia.”  

As one of the companion events to the SunTrust Richmond Marathon, the HCA Virginia 8k features a tour of some of Richmond’s most beautiful and historic neighborhoods and is perfect for runners and walkers of all abilities who want to be a part of a great event. The same first-class service that makes it “America’s Friendliest Marathon” elevates the HCA Virginia 8k to a premier experience for all participants.

“HCA Virginia has been a great partner for a number of years and with a number of our events,” said Jon Lugbill, Sports Backers executive director and the event’s race director.  “We’re excited that they have chosen to lend their name to the HCA Virginia 8k, one of the largest races of its distance in the country and one that showcases the capital city in all its fall splendor.”  This fall, CJW Medical Center and Henrico Doctors’ Hospital will host Marathon Training Seminars to help our long distance runners prepare.
 
The HCA Virginia Health System serves Central Virginia, Northern Virginia and Southwest Virginia through 13 acute care hospitals and more than a dozen outpatient diagnostic and treatment centers.  It is one of the state's largest private employers with a full-time workforce of more than 10,000.

The registration fee for the HCA Virginia 8k is $20 through Tuesday, June 30, $25 thereafter.  Registration is available at www.richmondmarathon.org.

Media seeking more information may contact Mike McCormick at (804) 285-9495 or (804) 901-9047.