Sumner resigns from marathon

After a successful four-year stint as executive race director for the Orange County Marathon, Bill Sumner said he has resigned.

“I came in and started this event with a great deal of passion, vision and built a dream team. We all worked diligently to create the best experience and accomplished a great deal,” Sumner said. “Now, I challenge new leadership and the current board of directors to take the event to the next level.

“I would like to sincerely thank all of the wonderful people and organizations who helped deliver an event which was second to none. I also personally congratulate all of participants who took on the challenge to run the OC Marathon. For many of them it was a life changing experience and certainly an accomplishment they can treasure for the rest of their lives.”

Sumner, 60, will still be involved with running. He is president of the Cal Coast Track Club and also the coach of the Corona del Mar High storied track and field and cross country teams.

During his more than 35 years in the community, Sumner has helped thousands of runners cross the finish line of their first marathon or half marathon.

Under his watch, the Avia Orange County Marathon presented by Nutrilite was born. In its first year the event generated $300,000 for local children’s charities through its pledge programs and has grown ever since. On Jan. 6, close to 12,000 runners participated in the fourth annual weekend-long event.

Sumner recruited his friend and running legend Bill Rodgers to become an official spokesperson for the event and inspired an elite field of international runners to compete annually on this fast and scenic course his team developed.

Sumner launched the OC Marathon Kids Training Program in schools throughout Orange County and developed an official OC Marathon Training Program as part of his Cal Coast Club. The popular program helped thousands of runners complete their goal of finishing a marathon.

— From staff reports