The creators of The Coastal Challenge (TCC), the World's Expedition Run, have created a new off-road running race set on the islands off the east coast of Panama. Scheduled September 3-6, 2009, TCC Panama: Island Run serves as a sister TCC event created for competitive runners seeking a shorter course with a focus on relaxation - sending competitors on three courses across three islands. Interested participants can register and find out more information at http://www.tccislandrun.com.

TCC Panama: Island Run is a four-day event that will give runners a full day of relaxation in the colonial town of Bocas before heading off for three straight days of island hopping on a remote and tranquil archipelago. With daily distances between 15 and 25 kilometers, competitors – who can register in individual or pairs categories - will have ample opportunity to venture off on their own after each stage to explore the islands or join staff on daily guided excursions. Registration will be capped at 60 competitors to maintain a small and intimate atmosphere while minimizing the race's environmental impact.

"We wanted to create something special as we head into our fifth year of racing and event management," says Race Director and Event Founder Tim Holmstrom. "European and South American travelers have long been drawn to the beautiful scenery and bohemian atmosphere of Panama, but it's still a relatively unknown destination for North Americans. This event will give everyone a chance to get to know this beautiful country while participating in a fun and challenging race."

Island Run will take place in Bocas del Toro, a Unesco World Heritage site and one of the most biologically diverse areas of the world that includes two national parks and two protected cloud forests. Over the course of four days competitors will explore three islands while traveling by boat and catamaran, and will have opportunities to see unparalleled marine life while experiencing the rich flavors of Panamanian cuisine and culture. "The Island Run in Panama is ideal for both those who have raced in Costa Rica and those who have been unable to commit to a week-long stage race," adds Holmstrom. "We are staging this race in a lush and beautiful tropical setting on small islands where people get around by boat wherever they go. We invite everyone to 'Go Island' with us in Panama."

About The Coastal Challenge

The Coastal Challenge is the "World's Expedition Run," releasing runners over approximately 200 kilometers of exotic and wild Costa Rican mountainous regions and rugged coastline. For six days, runners embrace the spirit of adventure, discovery and camaraderie within a long distance running competition while navigating wide river crossings, rain forests, jungles, windswept highlands, beaches, and rock outcroppings. It is an expedition run of epic proportions introducing competitors to the hospitality of the local Tico culture while pushing the limits of their will and endurance.

TCC Panama, being just a 3-day race, represents a shift in format and a middle ground between what we've created at the Expedition Run in Costa Rica and the much shorter distances at The Coastal Experiences. It's another great alternative for competitive runners seeking a shorter course with a focus on relaxation or those not feeling entirely prepared for The Coastal Challenge, Expedition Run. As always, all the races remain true to The Coastal Challenge tradition of combining tough races set in beautiful locations with fun and friendly adventure.

For more information visit http://www.thecoastalchallenge.com.