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Boilermaker and Excellus hope to break records and encourage generic drug purchases

By DON SHIPMAN

Story Created: Jun 24, 2008 at 12:15 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jun 24, 2008 at 1:40 PM EDT

UTICA - The Utica Boilermaker Road Race and Excellus Bluecross Blueshield are attempting to break a new world record, and shed light on a serious issue.

The news conference late Tuesday morning at the F.X. Matt Brewery near the finish line of the Boilermaker. They're trying to encourage you to purchase generic drugs instead of brand names.

And they're hoping to get everyone who runs the race, and spectators to wear the "Groucho Marx"-style glasses to highlight their point.

"Gives us bragging rights, but again it's bringing attention to the fact that generic drugs are real drugs in disguise," said Jim Stasaitis, Boilermaker Race Director. "And that's what this is all about."

Participants are being asked to wear the glasses for a total of five minutes during the post race party behind the F.X. Matt Brewery.

The Boilermaker is taking place on July 13.