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Fri., November 4, 2011 2:24pm (EDT)

Runners ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll’ Through Savannah
By Associated Press
Updated: 7 months ago

SAVANNAH, Ga.   —  
The Rock 'n' Roll Marathon arrives for its inaugural race in Georgia's oldest city — Savannah — with a field of 23,000 runners, most of them traveling to the race from out of town. (Photo By: crunchynanas via Flickr)
The Rock 'n' Roll Marathon arrives for its inaugural race in Georgia's oldest city — Savannah — with a field of 23,000 runners, most of them traveling to the race from out of town. (Photo By: crunchynanas via Flickr)
It's got 46,000 running shoes, more than 40 rock bands and 26 miles of streets closed to traffic — and Savannah officials say it should add up to one of the city's most profitable tourism events.

The Rock 'n' Roll Marathon arrives for its inaugural race in Georgia's oldest city — Savannah — with a field of 23,000 runners, most of them traveling to the race from out of town.

Joe Marinelli, president of Savannah's tourism bureau, says that should add up to big business — at least $23 million in direct spending.

The Rock 'n' Roll Marathon typically targets larger cities such as Las Vegas. But marathon spokesman Dan Cruz says Savannah sold out quickly despite being the smallest city to host the event.