Challenge will engage local businesses in friendly competition for a cause


AKRON, Ohio (June 19, 2014) – The Akron Marathon, in partnership with Sterling Jewelers Inc., the largest specialty retail jeweler in the U.S., is pleased to introduce the Corporate Cup Challenge. Presented by Sterling Jewelers, the Challenge aims to engage local companies in a friendly competition designed to increase health and wellness among their team members, while encouraging volunteerism and fundraising through participation in the Akron Marathon.

The Corporate Cup Challenge will use a tiered scoring system in which companies earn points based on results in various areas. These areas of competition will include the number of Marathon runners and volunteers, top finishers in the Marathon’s full, half and team relay events and funds raised for local charities.
“Sterling Jewelers is proud to partner with the Akron Marathon and excited to present the first Corporate Cup Challenge,” said Lynn Ahlers, Vice President, Compensation, Benefits and HR Shared Services, Sterling Jewelers Inc. “We are deeply committed to the well-being of our Team Members and in making a positive impact within our community, and we look forward to a fun, healthy competition that gives back to the city of Akron.”

The Corporate Cup Challenge scoring system will ensure that the Corporate Cup Champion is well-rounded in the areas of participation, philanthropy, volunteerism and performance. The winning organization will be awarded the official Corporate Cup, engraved with the company name, to display for one year, as well as a replica trophy to keep.

“The Corporate Cup Champion will be recognized not only for its significant impact in the philanthropic needs of the community, but also for its contribution to the health and wellness of its employees,” said Anne Bitong, Executive Director of the Akron Marathon. “The Akron Marathon is pleased to partner with Sterling Jewelers to present this opportunity to recognize the commitment our local organizations have towards our community.”

Companies interested in taking part in the Corporate Cup Challenge should complete the application form found at akronmarathon.org/CorporateCupChallenge by no later than August 1, 2014. For additional information, please contact Katie Kline at (330) 434-2786.

The Akron Marathon, which consists of four events including the full and half marathon, the five-person team relay and the kids’ run, has grown by more than 10,000 participants since the inaugural event in 2003. The Marathon offers the community a health-focused, fun-filled occasion that draws thousands of participants and spectators each year. The 12th annual event will be held September 27, 2014. Registration is available at akronmarathon.org.