To quote Uncle Sam: We want YOU…to decorate Highway 72! Running or walking 26.2 miles isn’t easy, even if the cause is to benefit veterans; and at the HEROES Marathon Nov. 21, participants will be along the west shoulder of the highway heading from the Dent County Commons at 7 a.m. to Lions Club Drive and then on to Lions Club Park, finishing by 2 p.m., approximately.
The Course Decor Contest challenges neighbors along the way to inspire and encourage the runners with signs, flags, tractors, or old cars with flags, to make the course patriotic and fun. The home or pasture that the HEROES Board deems the winner will receive a handcrafted yard art piece.
“The St. Jude Memphis Marathon, that I’ve run for several years, has a neighborhood block party contest for their race, in which locals encourage and entertain runners throughout the course,” said Shawn Bolerjack, race director. “We have decided to do the same for the HEROES Marathon! Runners really appreciate noise, such as yelling, clapping, or whistling; your hands may get tired from clapping, so you may want to have some kind of noisemaker, such as a cowbell. Your support can be invaluable to runners who are putting both their bodies and their minds to the test.”
HEROES Marathon has donated $55,000 to local veterans causes to date. This year’s marathon is the fifth annual occurance of this charity event. In addition to the full and half marathons, there is a Marathon Relay option for a team of four to divide the 26.2-mile marathon into six-mile sections; and a 5K and 10K in and around Lions Club Park in Rolla.
“We’re proud to be able to give runners the opportunity to accomplish their fitness goals while honoring our veterans, active military and fallen heroes. Due to COVID-19 and maintaining crowd size, we are capping entrants, and will be closing registration for the Marathon and Half Marathon Nov. 14,” said Bolerjack.
Organizers recommend registering soon to be guaranteed a spot. Online registration can be accessed at www.heroesmarathon.com.
