The "Early Bird" deadline is nearly here for runners who expect to participate in the 2000 Cannon Long Island Marathon. Those who registered by Dec. 31 not only save money but also avoid a last minute rush and are guaranteed a spot in the race, according to Nassau County Executive Thomas S. Gulotta.

Applications for the bi-county area's largest sporting event (which includes a full and half marathon) can be picked up at most county parks and at the Recreation and Parks Administration Building at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow. Runners can also obtain an application by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the Sports Unit, Administration Building, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow, NY 11554. An application can also be found in the 1999-2000 Recreation and Parks Winter Calendar, which is distributed throughout county parks, museums and libraries.

Runners who miss the $22 early bird special will pay $25 from Jan. 2 through the standard deadline of March 17. A late registration fee of $28 will be in effect from March 18 through April 27 at 4:30 p.m., after which time no more applications will be accepted. Regardless of deadlines, registration will cease when a capacity field of 12,000 runners is reached.

The 2000 Canon Long Island Marathon and Half Marathon is set for 8 a.m. Sunday, May 7, beginning and ending at Eisenhower Park. The race is conducted by the Nassau County Department of Recreation and Parks. Persons wishing additional information may call 572-0249 weekdays during business hours.