• Lethbridge's Kip Kangogo breaks course record in men's 10k
• More than $475,000 raised for 30 local charities

CALGARY, May 29, 2011 /CNW/ - Weather conditions were at their best for the more than 9,800 runners and walkers who laced up their shoes and participated in the 47^th annual Scotiabank Calgary Marathon. With a men's course record broken, more than $475,000 raised for local charities and a race course full of cheering crowds, today's Scotiabank Calgary Marathon was the most successful event yet.

Kip Kangogo of Lethbridge, AB cruised to an easy win in the men's Jugo Juice 10k, breaking the course record by a mere two seconds with a finishing time of 30:07.66, while in the women's 10k, up-and-comer Natasha Wodak of Port Moody, BC, was three seconds shy of breaking the course record with her first place finishing time of 34:37.61.

The Centaur Subaru men's half marathon saw a fierce competition from another Lethbridge champion, Willy Kimosop, who took home first place with a time of 1:09:00. Philip Kipchumba Samoei from Kenya was a close four seconds behind at 1:09:04, beating out last year's half marathon champion, David Jackson by 10 seconds.  Jackson placed third overall and was the top Canadian finisher.

In the women's half marathon, Ontario's Josiane Aboungono came in first with a time of 1:22:05 and Nadyia Fry of BC finished second with a time of 1:23:22.

It was a tight race to the finish line as Squamish BC's Jason Loutitt ran 2:33:03 and edged out Brendan Kenny (2:33:58) in the men's Scotiabank Marathon, while Ailsa Macdonald from St. Albert, AB outran Calgary's Joylin Nodwell by four minutes, with a time of 3:15:55.

"Congratulations to all of our winners, participants and to our community," said Lynn Cox, Scotiabank Calgary Marathon Marketing Director.  "We have seen this year's event grow by 15 per cent and wouldn't be here without the support of the City, the community, our volunteers and sponsors. Thanks to everyone for making this the best year yet!"

"What a great day for celebrating our community and athleticism," said Pete Molenaar, Area Vice-President, Commercial Banking, Scotiabank.  "This year's Scotiabank Calgary Marathon raised more than $475,000 for 30 charitable causes, saw a course record broken and participation growth.  It was an unforgettable day for a race and for the community!"

In its second year as an interactive component to the race, the Scotiabank Group Charity Challenge witnessed record fundraising totals for 30 official local charities with a fundraising total of $475,000 and counting, surpassing last year's total of $250,000.  Pledges are still being collected until June 18, 2011.  For full event details and race results, please visit www.calgarymarathon.com.

Scotiabank Marathon Male

Scotiabank Marathon Female

Centaur Subaru Half Marathon Male

Centaur Subaru Half Marathon Female

Jugo Juice 10K Male

Jugo Juice 10 K Female

About the Scotiabank Calgary Marathon:
Canada's Oldest Marathon Turns 50 in 2014

Voted the 2010 & 2009 Best Road Race in Alberta, the Scotiabank Calgary Marathon is a challenging, competitive and fun event with a race designed for everyone of any level. This umbrella event includes the Scotiabank Marathon, Centaur Subaru Half Marathon, Jugo Juice 10K, AstraZeneca 5K Walk and Run or Scotiabank Kids Marathon. In 2011 nearly 10,000 runners and walkers took to the streets and more than $475,000 was raised for 30 official charities.

Scotiabank is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, both in Canada and abroad.  Recognized as a leader internationally and among Canadian corporations for its charitable donations and philanthropic activities, Scotiabank has provided on average approximately $44 million annually to community causes around the world over the last 5 years. Visit us at  www.scotiabank.com.

/NOTE TO PHOTO EDITORS: Photos accompanying this release are available on the CNW Photo Network and archived at http://photos.newswire.ca.  Images are free to accredited members of the media/