Local Runner Accepts the GNC Pro Performace Challenge at Pittsburgh Marathon

PITTSBURGH, April 30, 2001 - While most of the 6,000 runners competing in the 2001 edition of the UPMC Health System/City of Pittsburgh Marathon will be excited just to finish, Donald Splitstone has one entirely different goal. He will start dead last and attempt to pass as many runners as possible as part of the GNC Pro Performance Challenge for charity.

Splitstone, 26, a geotechnical project designer from Mount Oliver, will tackle his fourth straight Steel City marathon on Sunday, May 6, 2001. For every competitor Splitstone passes on his way to the finish line, GNC Pro Performance will donate $1 to the Allegheny County Special Olympics. GNC is the official “nutrition center