[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Hewitt edited.jpg” caption=”McMaster alumnus, Joe Hewitt, is the assistant race director of the Mississauga Marathon. Photo courtesy of Landmark Sport Group.”]McMaster alumnus, Joe Hewitt ('77), was recently named assistant race director of the Mississauga Marathon.

Hewitt, who has lived in Mississauga for 27 years, worked in the
Aquatics Department of Recreation & Parks for the City of Mississauga.

An avid runner, Hewitt completed his first marathon in 1978. He has competed three times in the Boston Marathon, twice in Ironman Canada and has successfully completed ten 100 Mile Trail races, including the Western States Endurance Run.

His involvement in athletics extends beyond the hundreds of races he has completed. Hewitt is an active member and past president of the Burlington Runners. He has been directing road and trail races for the club over the past 12 years.

Organizing the fourth annual Mississauga Marathon will take Hewitt behind the scenes of the marathon he has run all three years.

“The course traverses the neighbourhoods where I grew up, met my wife and lived and worked for many years,” said Hewitt. “I am excited to help organize this world class marathon.”

With a mandate of “A Run for Everyone”, the Mississauga Marathon will continue with marathon festival traditions on May 12 and 13, 2007. Spectators, volunteers, runners and their families will enjoy a day of fitness and entertainment. Music, celebrities and celebration are planned for the event, which anticipates more than 12,000 runners and 1,500 volunteers.

Volunteer and participant registration is available online or by calling 905-949-2931