The Dallas White Rock Marathon (DWRM) board of directors announced a major organizational change for Texas’ oldest running marathon. Current race director Marcus Grunewald, who has served the marathon in that role since 2002, will assume the role of executive director, effective immediately. Additionally, the DWRM will contract with Event Southwest to handle race logistics and operations for the December events.
“Marcus Grunewald has been instrumental to our race’s success for many years,” said Kevin Snyder, chairman of the DWRM board of directors. “He possesses an unparalleled passion, knowledge and appreciation for the Dallas running community; we’re very pleased to expand Marcus’ role with our race, and are excited for what his leadership as executive director will bring to this marathon’s future.”
Grunewald will supervise all administrative aspects of the MetroPCS® Dallas White Rock Marathon® including (but not limited to) race staff, event hospitality, elite runner activities, promotional and advertising materials, website and database management, and coordination of the Health & Fitness Expo.
Event Southwest is owned and operated by former Racing Systems (Run On) race director, Lear Johnson, and Michael Luchsinger, owner of Apple Event Services. The newly established firm will manage race logistics leading up to the December 9 marathon, half marathon and marathon relays, including course development, measurement and sanctioning. Event Southwest will also provide complete oversight and management of race day operations.
“As this marathon continues to grow and grow, I can’t think of anyone more apt to oversee race operations than Johnson and Luchsinger,” said DWRM executive director Marcus Grunewald. “The changes our organization is making today will be evident in the enhanced runner experience come December.”
The 2012 MetroPCS Dallas White Rock Marathon starts and finishes in downtown Dallas, near the Omni Dallas Hotel. Registration for this year’s race opens June 1. Visit runtherock.com for more information.