John Hancock Financial Services Increases Prize Money for the Boston Marathon

From press release

February 15, 2005

Men's and Women's Open Winners to Receive $100,000 Total Prize Awards Climb to $575,000

BOSTON, MA - February 15, 2005 - John Hancock Financial Services today announced that it would increase its prize money commitment for the Boston Marathon. Beginning this year, the men's and women's open division champions will each receive $100,000 in prize money. Previously John Hancock gave $80,000 to the open winners. In addition, wheelchair champions will now receive $15,000 each compared to $10,000 in the past. As principal sponsor, John Hancock will provide a guaranteed prize purse of $575,000, plus other performance bonuses for setting American and World records. The race will be held on Monday, April 18, 2005.

"The Boston Marathon is the oldest annual marathon and ranks as one of the most prestigious road racing events in the world," James M. Benson, President and CEO, John Hancock Life Insurance Company said. "By increasing the prize money we are helping to ensure that this quality race will continue to feature a diverse and world-renowned field of athletes from across the globe. Our financial support and services also continue to extend to the communities along the marathon route."

John Hancock, which provided the first-ever prize money for the race in 1986, is celebrating the 20th year of its landmark sponsorship. The Company also contributes a wide range of financial support, volunteers and services to the eight cities and towns along the marathon route in appreciation for past and continued support of the race. In addition, on race day, John Hancock offers the use of several of its facilities in Copley Square, the services of 1,900 employee volunteers to assist with race-related tasks, and a giant television screen near the finish line for the public to view the race. "We are extremely pleased that John Hancock has announced they will increase the prize money for the 2005 Boston Marathon," said Guy Morse, Executive Director, Boston Athletic Association. "Since John Hancock became principal sponsor 20 years ago, the marathon has maintained its world class status and ensured that the top runners compete in the oldest annual race."

To inspire future runners, John Hancock has established the John Hancock Running and Fitness Clinics, a national educational program that brings top athletes including Catherine Ndereba and Bill Rodgers into area schools to demonstrate running techniques, training methods, and healthy lifestyles. To date thousands of students have attended the clinics.

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