The Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) is pleased to announce Bill Fitzgerald as its new Program Director, effective February 1, 2006.

Fitzgerald, former Manager for Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, has strong business and strategic management skills in addition to a rich history with Marathon Training and CARA. "Bill Fitzgerald has given to the running community generously over the years on a volunteer basis" stated Ann Marie Houlihan, CARA's Executive Director. "He is the co-creator of CARA's LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon Training Program, a former CARA board member and has been a great running partner to many. We are delighted to have him join our team."

In addition to his 28 years of loyal service with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, Fitzgerald has most recently been volunteering his talents in a project management capacity for Habitat for Humanity, based outside of Atlanta, GA. He holds a B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Public Administration/Political Science from Northeastern Illinois State University.

Fitzgerald will use his insights and strategic skills to re-examine CARA's training programs. His project management and people management skills will be crucial in delivering a polished training experience for our volunteers and participants alike.

"We welcome Bill Fitzgerald back to Chicago and to CARA" stated Houlihan.

CARA is a not-for-profit organization with nearly 7,000 members serving runners of all abilities. Founded in 1978, CARA has grown to become the largest running organization in the Midwest. CARA produces training programs, upgrades the quality of races, and promotes safe running conditions on paths and trails. To learn more about CARA go to www.cararuns.org.