An addiction to running has motivated Marie Bartoletti, Finleyville, Pennsylvania, to participate in some of the largest marathons in the country. She is currently running a marathon every two weeks and will participate in the Eisenhower Marathon in Abilene April 2.

"I love to run; I am addicted to running," Bartoletti said. "I love people and I meet so many great people at these races. I feel really blessed that I can run like I do at age 48."

Bartoletti is also known for her Wheaties box status, winning the "Search for the Everyday Champion" contest and having her picture appear on Wheaties Energy Crunch cereal boxes for a two-year period.

Bartoletti finished her first marathon in Pittsburgh, Pa, in 1996 and has completed 40 marathons. Her favorite marathons have been the Burlington, VT run with a lake and mountains close to the course, the Nashville race with bands along the way, and the Boston.

"I guess Boston would really be my favorite, just because it is such an elite marathon and there were spectators the whole way!" Bartoletti said. "I felt great the entire3 hours and 41 minutes."

The largest marathon Bartoletti has run was the New York City marathon last November, with approximately 36,000 people participating. Boston was the second largest with about 28,000 runners. Bartoletti has also participated in the San Diego Rock 'n Roll, the Nashville Country Music Marathon and usually finishes in the top 10 percent, taking one of the top three spots in her age group.

"I usually don't have a problem with the marathon distance. I am so used to it, the miles just flow," Bartoletti said. "maybe at the beginning, when I think about having another 26.2 miles to run, but otherwise they go by one right after the other!"

Bartoletti is on a quest to complete the 50 states and D.C.

"When I decided to do this at the beginning of last year, I just wanted to do them all, sometime in my lifetime. At the end of the year, I had 23 completed," Bartoletti said. "I think I am going to finish the 51 marathons by the end of this year, ending with Honolulu Dec. 11."

When finished running the 50 states, Bartoletti plans to run in other countries and on other continents. She participated in marathons in Canada and Jamaica and has an interest in participating in triathlons again at a later date.

Bartoletti advises new marathon runners to enjoy the whole race and not to start off too fast. She also advises hydrating throughout the race, "even if you don't think you are thirsty."

Bartoletti has been a pacesetter at marathons and loves to help other people reach their finishing time goals.

"I have helped many people qualify for the Boston, by running with them individually during the marathon," Bartoletti said. "I love to help other people get what they want out of their runs! I coached Train to End Stroke and helped many people run or walk their first marathon."

Wearing bib No 112, Bartoletti is certain to be noticed on the Eisenhower Marathon course April 2.

Marathon and half marathon races begin at 7 a.m. with marathoners coming across the finish line beginning after 9 a.m. and continuing until 1 p.m. Other races (5K and 10 K) will begin at 7:15 and a community walk will begin at 8 a.m. Race registration is available Friday evening and Saturday morning before the race.

Further information may be gained by calling Dickinson County Red Cross, 785-263-2341

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