READ TO RUN:City gets set for 2nd half-marathon
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The 13.1-mile scenic run through the downtown and residential areas of McMinnville will begin at 8:30 a.m. Oct. 22 and end with an awards ceremony around noon. A post-race party on the Civic Center lawn is also planned to finish off the afternoon.
“One thing that will be different this year from last year is the race will be on Saturday morning instead of Sunday,” Parks and Recreation director Carlene Brown said. “We had a lot of people locally want to race but it conflicted with church so we are going to accommodate them.”
If 13.1 miles is too much for you to run, then the relay category might be the way for you to go. Two people can split the 13.1-mile run into 6.55 miles with the partner taking the second half. Relay teams can consist of family members, friends, co-workers, or male or female runners.
“If companies wanted to sponsor their employees to run, they could put their company’s name or logo on their shirts,” Brown said. “We would really like to see more local runners in the relay division.”
Awards will be presented to the top three overall males and females along with different age groups and overall relay teams.
With 208 registered last year and 184 finishers, Brown said she hopes to see that number grow this year.
The half-marathon is being planned in conjunction with Team Magic, an event management company. Team Magic planned 11 events this year, including the Chattanooga Waterfront Triathlon and the internationally known Powerman Series.
McMinnville residents are also being encouraged to attend the race and cheer on the runners. “We are trying to bring people to our community,” Brown said. “This will be a great race to watch and cheer people on as they go by.”
Brown also added that she is looking for volunteer groups to hand out water throughout the run along with other tasks. Businesses are also welcome to provide items to put into the packets that each runner will receive.
The fees for the half-marathon are $35 for individuals online and $50 for relay teams online. If payments are made through mail, prices are $40 for individuals and $55 for relay teams. If payments are received after Oct.1 online or through mail, a $5 fee will be added to each. Prices for the half-marathon include a finisher metal and a T-shirt. Runners must be at least 12 years old to participate.
To register or to get more information log onto www.team-magic.com or call McMinnville Civic Center at 473-1212.