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PRINCE GEORGE'S CLASSIC REACHES FIVE-YEAR MILESTONE

"Classic is Much More Than a Football Game"

LANDOVER, MD – Celebrating its fifth year of providing sports, culture, community, education and entertainment within Prince George County, organizers and sponsors officially released details about the annual Prince George's Classic. Sponsored by State Farm Insurance® and hosted by the Prince George's Black Chamber of Commerce, this year's Classic will feature Bowie State University and Lincoln University (PA) on Saturday, October 4, 2008. The kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Bowie State's Bulldog Stadium.

Mike Little, president and founder of Prince George's Classic, Inc., made the official announcement today during a press conference held at the Prince George's Sports & Learning Complex. High ranking political, business and community leaders were also on hand to make the announcement, as well as distinguished sponsors, partners and supporters of the Classic.

"We are very committed to establishing a classic that has a longstanding tradition of appreciating black college sports, educational achievement and cultural excellence while showcasing the most affluent African-American community in the nation," said Little. "We are looking forward to a very entertaining and action packed week as we celebrate the five-year anniversary of the Prince George's Classic."

Starting the week of September 29th, there are a host of exciting events planned for the fifth annual Classic, including a golf tournament, welcome reception, battle of the bands, health and wellness vendor fair, college fair and step show.

Perhaps the most anticipated event of this year's Classic will be the 50 Million Pound Challenge Walk - a 5k walk around Bowie's campus to address the health and fitness concerns of the African American community. Dr. Ian Smith, bestselling author, diet and fitness expert, and creator of the 50 Million Pound Challenge, will be participating in the walk. He will also be available to autograph his books and for photo opportunities with his fans.

"Given the alarming statistics of health-related problems and deaths caused by obesity, especially in the African-American community, we thought it was necessary to address this issue," said Lillian Holt, Mid-Atlantic multicultural business development director for State Farm®. "We are encouraging County residents to assume responsibility for their health and wellbeing and to enjoy a fantastic day of health and fitness with Dr. Ian Smith during the Prince George's Classic."

Another highlight of the Prince George's Classic is the crowd's favorite battle of the bands. Featuring "show style" high school marching bands in Prince George's County, Baltimore and D.C., spectators watch in awe as the bands showcase their musical talents through intricate choreographed routines. This year, the battle of the bands is presented by Comcast and will take place at the state-of-the-art Comcast Center on the campus of the University of Maryland.

The other main attraction of this year's Classic will be the football game between the Bulldogs of Bowie State and the Lions of Lincoln University. The Bulldogs are coached by Michael Lynn and the Lions are coached by Olabaniji "O.J." Abanishe. This gridiron match-up should prove to be highly entertaining considering that Lincoln University has not had a football program since 1960.

"We at Lincoln University are extremely proud and honored to be a part of the fifth annual Prince George's Classic," stated Coach O.J. "We understand the historical significance of playing in this game. Our alumni, the community and our campus is excited about the opportunity to participate against a quality program like Bowie State."

Located 50 miles outside of Philadelphia, Lincoln University has an illustrious history. Founded in 1854, Lincoln University is the first historically black institution of higher education and its graduates include such luminaries as Thurgood Marshall, the first African American justice of the United States Supreme Court, and acclaimed poet and author Langston Hughes. Organizers are proud to showcase this distinguished historically black college in the Classic.

For the most current updates about the Prince George's Classic and information on ticket sales, please visit the Web site at www.PrinceGeorgesClassic.com or contact the Prince George's Classic office at 301-567-5747.

THE FIFTH ANNUAL PRINCE GEORGE'S CLASSIC DATES ARE CONFIRMED (PDF)

2008 PRESS COVERAGE
:: Lincoln University Athletics
Lincoln to meet Bowie State in Fifth Annual Prince George's Classic

:: Gazette
Classic Returns to Bowie State

:: Prince George's Suite Magazine
A Classic Fifth

:: Washington Informer
Prince George's Classic Ready for Fifth Year Celebration

:: Washington Informer
First Ever HBCU to Participate in Prince George's Classic

:: Onnidan News
Lincoln to Meet Bowie State in Fifth Annual Prince George's Classic