Thousands of runners, supporters and spectators are expected for the 9th Annual AthHalf Half Marathon and 5K this weekend.
The race benefits AthFest Educates, the nonprofit that supports music and arts education for local youth. Jill Helme is Executive Director of the organization.
“This year alone, we have representatives from 22 different states who are coming to participate specifically in the AthHalf, so it’s a great tourism draw as well for people,” Helme says.
She says the race is considered one of the best in the nation.
“Two years ago Shape magazine listed us as a must-run half marathon. Last year, halfmarathons.net rated us as the number one college town race, so it really does have a fantastic following,” Helme states. “And every year, about 50 percent of the people who run this race are first-time AthHalf-ers. So they’ve learned about it from a friend, or they’ve learned about it through social media, whatever the case is, and then they come into town to participate in this race.”
The half-marathon kicks off Sunday morning at 7:30, while the 5K is Saturday at 2:30 pm. Helme says there is still time to register.
“Registration is open online until October 17, and then if you miss the online registration, you can always come to the Health and Fitness Expo on Saturday, October 20 between 12 pm and 6 pm at the Classic Center Pavilion, and you can register there,” Helme says.
AthHalf features a new course this year. For more information or to register, please visit athhalf.com.
