Uniondale, N.Y.-- Nassau County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi, joined by Reckson Associates Realty Corp. President and CEO Scott Rechler, Legislator David Mejias (D-North Massapequa) and Legislator Diane Yatauro (D-Glen Cove), today called for more Long Island residents, as well as runners throughout the metropolitan area, to take part in the 33rd annual 2005 Reckson Long Island Marathon on May 1st. County Executive Suozzi, Mr. Rechler and Legislator Mejias also announced their intent to run in the half-marathon.

County Executive Suozzi (right) and Reckson Associates Realty Corp. President and CEO Scott Rechler (left) proudly display their racing numbers for the May 1st Long Island Half Marathon

"The Long Island Marathon is one of the most colorful and exciting annual events we host in Nassau County, and I'm here today to encourage Nassau residents, as well as our neighbors in Suffolk, New York City and elsewhere, to join us at Eisenhower Park on May 1st," County Executive Suozzi said. "For everyone who gets involved, whether they end up running a few miles or all 26, I can promise it will be a great experience. And, as part of my own commitment to this great event and to physical fitness, I plan to join the thousands of residents participating in the Marathon."

"This race is considered 'runner-friendly' because it allows the runners to decide after they start, which race they wish to finish," said Legislator Mejias. "Whichever race you choose is completely dependent upon how you feel that day. Runners actually have a good first portion of the course to decide which race they ultimately want to complete."

County Executive Suozzi, who will be the first Nassau County Executive to compete in the Marathon, plans to run the 13.1 mile half-marathon, which is a traditional option for participants in this race. The Marathon will begin 8 a.m. at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow and the course will feature EAB Plaza, the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Nassau County's Museum Row and the world-renowned track at Mitchel Athletic Complex. Last year, nearly 5,000 competitors ran.

The County Executive also emphasized the public health aspect of the Marathon. "There is great national concern about fitness and obesity, and I hope this race and my own participation in it will help remind the public about the importance of exercise," County Executive Suozzi said.

"With the warm weather here, I want to encourage all our residents to get out to our newly renovated parks in the months ahead to run, play ball, walk, swim, and take part in all the other activities the County Parks system provides for its citizens," added County Executive Suozzi.

The County Executive was joined at the pre-Marathon press conference by Mr. Rechler of Reckson Associates Realty Corp. (NYSC: RA), a leading New York-area real estate investment trust (REIT) and the title sponsor for the 2005 Marathon. Mr. Rechler announced he would also run the half-marathon while emphasizing that his firm is actively promoting the event within the buildings it manages or owns, including recruiting runners and race aides from among its employees and tenants.

"Reckson is excited to be sponsoring this energetic and worthwhile event for New York-area marathon runners," said Mr. Rechler. "We are proud to be involved with an event that promotes healthy living and a firm sense of unity within the Long Island community, as well as the entire New York region."

For more information about the race or to obtain an application to participate, call 516-572-0248; visit the Marathon Website, www.thelimarathon.com; or send an e-mail, info@limarathon.com. For more information can also contact David Ring or Cindy Gillen at the Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation & Museums at 516-572-0218, or Stephanie Singer of Beckerman Public Relations representing Reckson Associates at 908-781-6420.