Look out, New York. Lance is ready to run.
Lance Armstrong told The Associated Press on Wednesday that he plans to compete in the New York City Marathon on Nov. 5.
"We were looking at the Chicago Marathon, but a conflict arose with the date, and New York seems to fit our schedule better," Armstrong said in a telephone interview. "I've been training some, but I wouldn't call it serious. It's just something to fill a void in my life after I quit competing as a professional cyclist."
Armstrong, who is preparing for his first marathon, retired from cycling after winning an unprecedented seventh straight Tour de France last year.
Armstrong's decision to run in the marathon surprised many people -- including race officials.
Race director Mary Wittenberg had no idea until she heard the reports in London, where she is going to attend the London Marathon on Sunday.
"Lance is a born winner and has a Midas touch," Wittenberg said Thursday. "I can guarantee this year's marathon will have a shine to it like never before with Lance in our ranks. We welcome Lance with open arms and thank him for the lift we are sure to see in an already healthy sport of marathoning and in our efforts to get people moving toward healthier and fitter lives."
Armstrong's ex-wife, Kristin, ran the NYC Marathon in 2004, finishing in 3 hours, 45 minutes, 53 seconds.
Before committing to become a full-time cyclist, Armstrong competed in triathlons as a teen. He indicated he has no plans to run marathons or enter triathlons professionally, at least not at this time.