Sodexo was named the foodservice provider for the Marine Corps Marathon yesterday. Under the new agreement, Sodexo will provide the fuel that makes both the marathoners and event staff run later this month in Washington, D.C.

A Sodexo team from the D.C. area will provide breakfast for 700 people; lunch for 900 people; 5,100 boxed lunches for the Marines working the event; 27,000 hospitality bags for runners; and catering services to the marathon VIP tent.

“Our mission at Sodexo is to ‘make every day a better day’ for our customers and the Marine Corps Marathon weekend illustrates the important role the combination of physical well being and community plays in overall health,” says Greg Verone, president of Government Services.

The Marine Corps Marathon, the annual race known as “The People’s Marathon,” brings together runners from all walks of life to participate in a patriotic race and a day of family-friendly activities, including the Healthy Kids’ Fun Run, which Sodexo has co-sponsored since 2003.

“The Fun Run teaches kids about the importance of exercise and healthy food choices,” adds Verone. “With childhood obesity reaching epidemic proportions, it is our obligation and our commitment to be a leader in wellness initiatives.”

Sodexo has been the foodservice provider to the United States Marine Corps since 2002.