Rugut, Tufa highlight early commitments for 2007

Kenyan Paul Rugut (top photo) and Ethiopian Genna Tufa (#100) highlight the early commitments for the 2007 Quad Cities Marathon, presented by THE National Bank.

Tufa has two wins this year, at the Shamrock-Va. Beach Marathon (2:20:36) and at the Tampa Bank of America Marathon (2:21:44). Rugut ran to victory at the 2005 QCM in 2:20:27, running the third fastest time in race history. A number of other top elites are awaiting approval of VISA's and/or travel arrangements.

Phillip Kipchumba (Kenya) placed 4th at last year's QCM in 2:25:41. Brendon Moody (Ohio) ran a 2:23:44 at this year's Houston Marathon and is another top contender in the field.

The elite list, as of 8-16-07 includes:
MEN
Genna Tufa (Ethiopia)
Paul Rugut (Kenya)
Phillip Kipchumba (Kenya)
Brendon Moody (Ohio)
Brian Grudowski (Illinois)
Joe Moore (Kansas)
Rikki Hacker (Missouri)
Edmond Chopa (Colorado)

WOMEN
Lisa Butler (Oklahoma)
Machelle Cochran (Texas)