"We had a strong response from the islanders and mainland Chile in our inaugural year," said Race Director Rodrigo Salas. "Last year we welcomed runners from around the world." Around the world they will come but never in large numbers. Due to limited air seats and hotel accommodations on the tiny island, the event must cap its entries at 150. Sixty places have been reserved specifically for Marathon Tours who is the exclusive tour operator in North America for the 2008 event .

"This is definitely a niche market marathon," explained Thom Gilligan, president of Marathon Tours and Travel. "Runners will travel to the Easter Island Marathon primarily to experience the adventure of running in a mysterious remote destination, not to be part of a large crowd."

Situated in the South Pacific Ocean between Chile and Tahiti, Easter Island is located more than 2,000 miles from the nearest population center and is one of the most isolated inhabited islands in the world. The island is primarily known for its mysterious 800-plus stone statues or "Moai," which punctuate the landscape and outnumber the race participants by more than five to one. On average the stoic Moai stand 13 feet high and weigh 14 tons. The statues human-like heads featuring heavy foreheads are carved from rough hardened volcanic ash. Although the statues abound, nobody really knows how or why the massive Moai were built or how they were transported to their various perches around the island.

We are offering a package that will include a three night pre-race stopover in Santiago with some sightseeing and touring in Santiago, Vina del Mar and Valparaiso. Then we will board one of only four weekly flights to Easter Island for a 5-night stay. The 60 places will go quickly among the frequent past travelers with Marathon Tours. Act now to reserve your spot! This is a great trip for those looking to do the 7 continents as this qualifies as South America.

For further information call Cliff Jennings, project manager, at 800-444-4097