By Shannon Russell
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Four years and five races after organizing one of the nation's most lovable marathons, Flying Pig Marathon race director Rich Williams has announced an amicable split with Cincinnati's curly-tailed swine.

Williams and executive director Iris Simpson-Bush came to a "mutual parting agreement" June 13, Williams said.

Williams now works with his wife, Diane, planning events for Big Dog Media.

He said his Pig resignation was a career progression and there were no ill feelings.

"When you get into a situation of this magnitude, there's always going to be a political analysis," said Williams, 55.

"But (the Pig) is just going in one direction and I'm going in another."

Because of the race's growth, Simpson-Bush said restructuring was imminent. Instead of having a race director oversee the races' elements, Simpson-Bush said volunteers and consultants could take over Williams' responsibilities.

E-mail srussell@enquirer.com