MINNEAPOLIS, Jan 19, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Medtronic (NYSE: MDT) announced today it is recruiting runners from around the world who benefit from medical technology to participate in the fifth annual Medtronic Global Heroes program. Up to 25 runners will be selected to receive a paid entry for themselves and a guest to the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon or the Medtronic TC 10 Mile and a travel package that includes airfare for the Global Hero and guest to Minnesota.

The 29th Annual Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon weekend will take place Oct. 1-3, 2010. The deadline for Global Hero applications is March 31, 2010.

A cooperative effort between Twin Cities in Motion (organizers of the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon) and the Medtronic Foundation, the Global Heroes program recognizes runners from around the world who have a medical device.

In addition to receiving race entries and travel expenses, the Medtronic Foundation will donate $1,000 to a select non-profit patient organization that educates and supports people living with the Global Hero's medical condition.

To qualify as a Global Hero, runners must currently be using a medical device therapy to treat the following disease categories: heart disease, diabetes, chronic pain, spinal disorders, or neurological, gastroenterology and urological disorders. Eligible medical devices include any pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), any spinal device, any neurological device, any insulin pump, or any heart valve. All runners with eligible medical devices are welcome to apply with no restriction on manufacturer.

To apply or recommend someone to be a 2010 Medtronic Global Hero, visit medtronic.com/globalheroes. The application deadline is March 31, 2010. Runners will be chosen by a committee of Twin Cities in Motion. Certain conditions may apply and applicants must certify that they have discussed race participation with their physician.

"Since its inception, 84 extraordinary athletes from around the world have run in the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon or TC 10 Mile, including U.S. running legend Alberto Salazar, who has an implanted cardioverter defibrillator," said Dr. Steve Oesterle, senior vice president of medicine and technology at Medtronic, and marathon veteran. "They are a dynamic example of how individuals with chronic health conditions are living full, active lives and inspiring others in the process."

About Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon
Known as The Most Beautiful Urban Marathon in America(TM), the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon weekend is a three-day celebration of fitness that includes the Medtronic TC Family Events, TC 5K, TC 10K, Medtronic TC 10 Mile, and the marathon. Twin Cities in Motion is the non-profit organization that directs race weekend as a community service for the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Visit http://www.mtcmarathon.org for more information.

About Medtronic
Medtronic, Inc. (http://www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Minneapolis, is the global leader in medical technology - alleviating pain, restoring health, and extending life for millions of people around the world. The Medtronic Foundation is committed to improving the health of people and communities. Its grant making is focused in three areas: health, education and community.

SOURCE: Medtronic, Inc.

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