Instrumental LaSalle Bank chairman will retire end of year after 14 years of marathon sponsorship
LaSalle Bank Chairman Emeritus Norman Bobins was surrounded by colleagues and friends Thursday as he prepares for his last marathon under the LaSalle Bank banner. The former chairman, who retires at the end of this year, has been a key part of LaSalle Bank's support of the marathon since the bank's sponsorship began in 1994.

"I'd like to personally thank Norm Bobins for everything he has done in the past 15 years of this event, not only his support, but his insight, his caring and encouragement," said Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski at a Thursday press conference.

LaSalle Bank's association with the marathon "has been one of the most significant pillars in the LaSalle legacy," said LaSalle Bank Executive Vice President Mark Sanders.

Bank of America purchased LaSalle Bank this week. Illinois President John Brennan told reporters that Bank of America intends to sponsor of the marathon in 2008.

"In 1994 when LaSalle agreed to become the title sponsor of the Chicago Marathon, we never dreamed the race would become the world-class event we are enjoying here today," Bobins told reporters. "I speak for everyone at LaSalle when I say how proud we are of our participation in this amazing event."

Bobins will be running The 30th Anniversary LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon ("O.K., maybe walking quickly," he joked) with a relay team of five colleagues. "I'll have the honor and privilege of crossing the finish line to celebrate the final marathon to be run under the LaSalle Bank logo," Bobins said.

When Mayor Richard M. Daley spoke to reporters, he encouraged Bobins to pick up the pace: "As you know we have the Cubs in Wrigley Field," Daley said. Daley added, "I want to thank all those who have made this a wonderful, global event that truly represents the great I Will spirit of the City of Chicago."

Bank of America bought LaSalle Bank from ABN Amro for $21 billion this week. Bank of America officials said that the Oct. 7 marathon will still clearly be The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon. Bank of America's involvement will be limited: They will be at the Expo, share some branding and signage, and cheer on runners along the course, Brennan told reporters.

"I'm excited today to announce that BOA intends to continue the proud tradition that LaSalle Bank has had in terms of its marathon support," Brennan said. "We look forward to 2008 and being The Bank of America Chicago Marathon and working with Carey and his team as we go through that."

"We are proud of what we are about to embark on this weekend, we are proud of what we have been able to give the City of Chicago for the last 14 years," said LaSalle Bank Executive Vice President Mark Sander.