NEW YORK, N.Y. -- Avis Rent A Car System will be the primary sponsor of athletes with disabilities participating in this year's New York City Marathon, the Achilles Track Club announced.

More than 200 athletes with disabilities, most representing Achilles Track Clubs from throughout the world, will participate in the Nov. 3 event. Nearly 30,000 athletes total will compete.

"Having Avis help fund the organization for this event is the greatest gift imaginable," said organizer and Achilles Track Club founder Dick Traum.

Avis employees and Achilles Track Club headquarters staff and volunteers will welcome and host participants from 22 states and 27 countries, as these challenged athletes prepare to cover the 26.2-mile race across five bridges and multiple roadways connecting the five boroughs of New York City.

Avis vehicles, serving as emergency wheelchair repair and rest stations, will be strategically located. An additional Avis "reception" vehicle will be placed at the 72nd Street Transverse in Central Park, near the finish line. This site will serve as a gathering place for participants, their families and friends.

"Avis is proud to team up with the Achilles Track Club and to support the 'We Try Harder' spirit of its athletes," said Scott Deaver, executive vice president of marketing for Avis. "Whether for a marathon or for a vacation, we are committed to enabling travel as much as possible for people with disabilities."

The Achilles Track Club encourages people with disabilities to exercise and participate in events like the New York race. "This event helps give each participant an enormous sense of accomplishment," said Traum.