“My name is Wally West. I live in this cruddy little apartment with my mom. They call me Flash, ’cause I can run fast, really fast.”
Do you have your cape, mask or magic lasso ready? Registration for the 2014 Little Rock Marathon opens August 1st and the theme has been announced, it’s EPIC! Calling all Superheroes. One of the many events throughout the year that benefit the Little Rock Parks and Recreation Department, the Marathon touts the largest finishers medal in the country and the race attracts runners from across the country and around the world. In the past the Marathon portion of the event as well as the Half Marathon, have sold out well in advance. Last year the Marathon sold out by December and there were no slots left in the Half Marathon by January. This year will be no different, the organizers expect to attract 15,000 participants with the 26.2, 13.1, 6.2 and 3.1 mile races during the weekend. The city will be filled with Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Incredible Hulk, Captain America, and I’m sure a few runners will want to be as fast as Flash or Dash from the Incredibles.
So get your costumes ready but if you want to be a real Superhero, be a Lifesaver. Before the Little Rock Marathon there are several races on the calendar that support and benefit a number of organizations dedicated to prolonging and saving lives.
Coming up on August 24th is the 2nd Annual Bike and Hike for ALS. Research and local programs for patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease will benefit from the entry fees collected. They will be at Hillcrest Shop and Sip on August 1st to hand out temporary tattoos and information about the Bike and Hike and ALS.
Early in September, cyclists will spend an entire weekend riding from Little Rock to Hot Springs and back to support Multiple Sclerosis research.
Another upcoming race that Arkansas Outside is proud to support is the Fighting Red 5K A Race to End Blood Cancer on October 5th. Please take the time to visit the website and facebook page for inspiring stories and to find out how you can “get swabbed” to see if you could be a match for a patient in need of a lifesaving bone marrow transplant. Be the Hero.
“And so, may Evil beware and may Good dress warmly and eat plenty of fresh vegetables.” – The Tick
